UNAIR NEWS – The emergence of anthrax cases in humans in the Gunungkidul area has been a trending topic in society. This disease is the result of the deliberate actions of residents in digging up and consuming dead cows.
Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) veterinary expert Dr. Nusdianto Triakoso MP drh regretted the incident. Dr. Nus explained that anthrax is a disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.
“Specially, when exposed to air, these bacteria can form spores that are resistant to temperature and chemicals so that they can live for decades,” he explained.
That is why the body of an animal identified with anthrax cannot be cut open, even for inspection purposes. “It’s different from livestock meat with Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), which is still safe for consumption with certain cooking procedures. Animals with anthrax must not be cut open, let alone consumed. Because these bacteria attack and damage the internal organs, especially the spleen,” he said.
Mechanism of transmission
Warm-blooded animals can be infected with anthrax through food or drink contaminated with anthrax spores. This disease is zoonotic. It can be transmitted from animals to humans. However, transmission does not occur from animal to animal or human to human.
There are three ways of transmitting anthrax to humans: through the respiratory tract, digestion, and also through open wounds on the skin. All three have different levels of severity and symptoms.
“If the spores are inhaled, they will cause an infection that attacks the lungs. Infection through the skin often occurs but usually does not pose a danger,” explained the Vice Director of Medical Services, Education and Research at Universitas Airlangga Veterinary Teaching Hospital (RSHPUA).
Meanwhile, if it enters the digestive system, the sufferer will experience organ damage, especially the spleen and blood circulation, as with livestock infected with anthrax. For this reason, this disease is fatal and causes death in humans.
Even though it can be fatal to humans and animals, this disease can be treated if the symptoms are identified early. (*)
Author: Stefanny Elly
Editor : Binti Q. Masruroh
