Anthrax scare in Kandhamal, 15 affected

BERHAMPUR: Anthrax scare has gripped the tribal-dominated Kandhamal district as over 15 persons, including children, have been affected in Tumudibandh block of the district. Badagochuka and Sanagochuka villages in the block have been hit by the disease. The disease was detected nine days back.Seven of the affected villagers were shifted to MKCG Medical College and Hospital on Saturday night, said superintendent of the hospital Jogendra Behera.Kandhamal CDMO Nrusingha Charan Behera said though the symptoms appear to be of anthrax, it can only be confirmed after serological tests. Behera said eight patients were being treated at Tumudibandha hospital. Swabs of these patients have been sent to MKCG for tests. Doctors have also collected skin smear and blood samples from the affected people for examination.The disease has created panic in the locality but steps have been taken to check its further spread, the doctor said. The disease broke out in the remote villages apparently due to consumption of rotten beef and pork, sources said.  A health team from Phulbani led by the CDMO and a mobile health team from Balliguda rushed to the villages and geared up the preventive measures. All houses were disinfected with DDT and bleaching powder. The villagers were also advised not to take  beef and pork and keep away from the patients.