[Anthrax in Georgia: epidemiological situation and prognosis]

Anthrax, as an especially dangerous infection, needs permanent control from specialised institutions. The investigations became more important since the attempts to use Bacillus anthracis as the bioterrorism warfare. The issue is more acute for countries where the cases of anthrax are often registered. Cases of anthrax are registered whole around the territory of Georgia (69 regions). Analysis of morbidity during 1980-1989, 1990-1995 and 1996-2004 years showed the trend of increase of frequency of anthrax human cases. The territories where cases of anthrax are registered every year during last 10 years were established. Regions and towns of Georgia were ranged according to the frequency of anthrax cases. Physical -- geographical data and economic characteristics of regions with active hot beds of anthrax are presented. Some of isolates at the National Center for Disease Control and Medical Statistics (NCDC) of Georgia were investigated by molecular -- biological methods. Need for establishing and implementation of complex plan of measures for anthrax prevention is settled.