DOH probing anthrax cases in Abra

MANILA, Philippines - Disease experts of the Department of Health (DOH) are now investigating suspected cases of “cutaneous anthrax” in Lagangilang, Abra. 

According to the DOH, 23 cases were detected in the town and all of them are males aged two to 52. 

“No death was reported. Patients showed signs and symptoms compatible with cutaneous anthrax,” the DOH said in a statement.

Anthrax, according to the DOH, is endemic in the Philippines, generally affecting animals such as carabaos.

“Humans become secondarily infected after exposure to diseased or deceased animals,” the DOH said.

Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis bacteria and infection in humans usually involves the skin, lungs or gastrointestinal tract.

There are three forms of the disease, namely cutaneous, inhalational, and gastrointestinal depending on the mode of transmission.

The DOH said the inhalational and gastrointestinal forms of anthrax are rarely found.

The DOH team is now assisting local officials and the Bureau of Animal Industry in conducting “outbreak investigation” in the Abra town.