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Published on: November 5, 2019
A cluster of anthrax cases including meningitis
Hakan Leblebicioglu1, Derya Turan, Cafer Eroglu
1Department of Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Ondokuz Mayis University Medical School, Samsun, Turkey. hakanomu@omu.edu.tr
Tropical Doctor
|February 18, 2006
Summary
A cow carcass caused an anthrax outbreak. Three people got sick, and one died from meningitis. Prophylactic antibiotics protected 20 others, highlighting the need for physician awareness in endemic areas.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.
- Endemic anthrax poses a risk in certain geographical regions.
- Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial for managing anthrax outbreaks.
Observation:
- A common-source outbreak of anthrax occurred, originating from a deceased cow.
- Three individuals contracted anthrax, manifesting in the meninges, skin, and larynx.
- One patient with meningitis succumbed to the infection.
Findings:
- The outbreak was linked to contact with or consumption of meat from an infected cow carcass.
- Prophylactic administration of tetracycline to 20 exposed individuals prevented further cases.
- The case fatality rate was significant in the patient with meningeal involvement.
Implications:
- Increased physician awareness of anthrax clinical presentations is vital in endemic zones.
- Public health education regarding safe handling of animal carcasses and meat is essential.
- Rapid response with prophylactic antibiotics can effectively control anthrax transmission.
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