UGM Expert Warns of Anthrax Danger if Not Handled Immediately

Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - A lecturer from the Faculty of Animal Science at Gadjah Mada University (Fapet UGM), Nanung Danar Dono, stated that anthrax is a dangerous disease that can be fatal if not treated immediately.

“Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. If infected and not promptly treated, the risk is death,” said Nanung, who is also part of the UGM Halal Centre team, in a statement in Yogyakarta on Monday.

According to him, one critical point of attention is the prohibition against slaughtering livestock that are sick or have died suddenly, especially if anthrax is suspected.

“The Bacillus anthracis bacteria can form spores that are capable of surviving for a long time in the environment and have the potential to spread,” he said.

He noted that the meat of livestock suspected of having anthrax must not be consumed. The public is also urged not to move or handle carcasses improperly, but rather to report immediately to the relevant authorities so that they can be handled according to procedure.

“Do not think it is a waste if it has to be discarded. Meat from carcasses containing anthrax must be destroyed, not consumed by our bodies,” he said.

He explained that anthrax transmission to humans can occur through spores that are swallowed, inhaled, or through skin contact.

In livestock, he added, one sign to watch out for is sudden death accompanied by high fever and loss of appetite. Therefore, anthrax cases are not merely an animal health issue, but a public health concern as well.

“Therefore, the vigilance of farmers and the community is a vital part of breaking the chain of transmission. This poison is meant to be destroyed, not put into our bodies,” he concluded.