Have a Nice Day
Don’t ignore Anthrax, awareness please!
It was just 9 years back. After 9/11, Anthrax was a serious issue in the western world. During that time, I was involved with a reputed university in a developed country. One morning, we had to face an alert due to this Anthrax — a potential weapon for Bioterrorism.
Still today, Anthrax is of serious interest due to the world terrorism issues. As an infective agent, it is a concern because it forms very resistant spores that can be transported easily. At present, it has come back in Bangladesh and infecting human and cattle.
Anthrax is commonly known as 'Tarka disease' among the villagers. Someone can ask — Are you sure? Do we have enough detection and research facilities? Do we know how to monitor? Or, are concerned authorities playing their role honestly? Frankly speaking, then my answer is — "I am not sure."
What I can say is that informing general mass about Anthrax in time does not mean creating panic. Knowing and developing awareness about it are certainly essential. And before making an important statement to the nation, our scientists and doctors should talk to each other with utmost importance. Public or private concerned policy makers' roles are going to be crucial at the end of the day, especially if the situation does not improve.
Here are some remarkable points about widely talked Anthrax:
•Anthrax infection is a condition caused by a bacteria Bacillus anthracis that usually causes infections with mainly domestic animals like cattle, goats, sheep, dogs, horses etc. The infection in humans is also called 'Woolsorters disease'.
•The bacterium infects the skin — most occupational cases are skin infections. But fortunately, skin infections are less severe and a more easily treated. It also infects the lungs — causing a form of pneumonia. It infects many small air sacs in the lung. This tends to be the most dangerous form. It sometimes infects the intestines. But this is rather rare.
The infection is typically treated by massive doses of antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin. But this article does not provide anthrax treatment advice. You should consult a qualified medical doctor for Anthrax infection advice and treatment specific to you.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments