Cutaneous anthrax cases reported in Yogyakarta, Indonesia
Three residents in Rongkop and Girisubo Sub-districts, Gunungkidul Regency, in the Special Region of Yogyakarta presented with skin wounds similar to anthrax, which later tested positive for Bacillus anthracis.
"All 3 have received treatment, and none have been hospitalized. Until now, their condition continues to be monitored by the nearest health center officers," said Head of Gunungkidul Health Office, Ismono.
Two additional suspected cases are being investigated.
While officials haven’t specifically noted the source of the outbreak, they are appealing to the public to not slaughter the carcasses of dead animals, because it could potentially cause disease transmission.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax can be found naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. Although it is rare, people can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
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Cutaneous anthrax occurs when the spore (or possibly the bacterium) enters a cut or abrasion on the skin. It starts out as a raised bump that looks like an insect bite. It then develops into a blackened lesion called an eschar that may form a scab. Lymph glands in the area may swell plus edema may be present. This form of anthrax responds well to antibiotics. If untreated, deaths can occur if the infection goes systemic. 95% of cases of anthrax are cutaneous.