Your trusted source

Suspicious cases of anthrax in Vardenis district of Armenia’s Gegharkunik region were reported to Armenian Health Ministry a few days ago. After receiving the report, the Ministry ordered to conduct epidemiologic study and take preventive measures.

Samples were taken for test from 15 people hospitalized with suspected anthrax on October 17. According to Health Ministry, the results of laboratory tests show that anthrax diagnosis is confirmed only for one patient, non-pathogenic cases of anthrax have been revealed in 9 samples and 5 samples tested negative. Doctors assess the condition of patients as satisfactory.

According to latest data, one person was hospitalized in Yerevan and 21 in Martuni.

Laboratory tests are underway for the rest of samples. Preventive measures are being implemented. The epidemiological situation is under control.

Anthrax is an infectious disease due to a type of bacteria called Bacillus anthracis. Infection in humans most often involves the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or lungs.

Anthrax commonly affects hoofed animals such as sheep, cattle, and goats, but humans who come into contact with infected animals can get sick from anthrax, too. In the past, the people who were most at risk for anthrax included farm workers, veterinarians, and tannery and wool workers. In recent years, anthrax has received a great deal of attention as it has become clear that the infection can also be spread by a bioterrorist attack or by biological warfare. Anthrax does not spread from person to person.