Indonesia launches coordinated anthrax response after case emerges in Yogyakarta
Indonesia's agriculture ministry has initiated a comprehensive effort to contain an anthrax case in Yogyakarta, including disinfection, treatment and vaccination of livestock.
The Ministry of Agriculture’s Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health, headed by Hendra Wibawa, activated an integrated response after an anthrax case was confirmed in Yogyakarta. Local animal health officers and the Gunungkidul Agriculture and Food Agency conducted an epidemiological investigation on Sept. 11 to trace the source and evaluate surrounding livestock. On Sept. 12, shelters were disinfected and sick animals received medical care, with healthy stock given vitamins.
By Sept. 14, antibiotics and vitamins were administered to 88 goats and 11 cattle in Dadapayu Village. A vaccination campaign began on Sept. 28 after the treatment period ended. Authorities stressed that residents must not slaughter, process, distribute or eat animals that die suddenly and should report any incidents promptly to aid disease-control efforts. Ongoing surveillance and public education are part of the continued response.
Why it matters
Anthrax can spread rapidly among livestock and to humans, so swift containment protects public health and agriculture.
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