Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

Health authorities in Nong Bua Lamphu province are investigating a suspected case of anthrax infection after a 64-year-old man developed skin lesions following the consumption of raw beef salad, commonly known in the region as koi neua.

 

The man, a resident of Non Sang District, began showing symptoms on 25 May, two days after reportedly helping slaughter an eight-month-old male calf and consuming part of it in a traditional raw dish. He later developed itchy bumps on his back, shoulders, arms, and stomach. The bumps became red, oozed pus, and eventually formed black scabs—a symptom commonly associated with cutaneous anthrax.

 

Following laboratory analysis, a Gram stain test yielded a positive result. However, medical professionals cautioned that this preliminary finding could indicate various types of bacteria, not necessarily anthrax. A definitive diagnosis will require further testing.

 

Provincial Governor Surasak Aksornkul has instructed the provincial livestock and public health departments to investigate the incident, monitor others who came into contact with the suspect beef, and test the remaining cattle in the same herd. A total of nine other cattle have been identified for blood testing, with samples sent to Region 4 Livestock Office in Khon Kaen for analysis.

 

The infected animal, affectionately nicknamed “Chao Toob,” was sold for 8,000 baht by a local cattle owner, who insisted that the calf showed no signs of illness prior to its sale. She further argued that the affected man, known for consuming raw meat regularly, had recently attended another festival where raw beef was also served—raising the possibility that the infection originated elsewhere.

 

Officials from Non Sang District have since launched a campaign to warn residents against consuming raw meat and to report any signs of illness in livestock. They have also begun disinfecting areas where the animal was slaughtered.

 

Veterinary expert Krisana Phonsawai confirmed that Nong Bua Lamphu has never before experienced a confirmed outbreak of anthrax, especially not in Non Sang District. However, he noted that the current rainy season increases risks as livestock can become weakened due to changing weather conditions.

 

“Farmers are urged to monitor their animals closely,” said Krisana. “If any cattle refuse to eat, show muscle tremors, or exhibit unusual behaviour, they must inform local livestock officials immediately so action can be taken promptly.”

 

Authorities continue to investigate and reassure the local community, emphasising the importance of early reporting and avoiding raw meat consumption until the source of the infection is definitively identified.

 

Related articles:

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/

 

https://aseannow.com/topic/1361141-anthrax-outbreak-halts-thai-beef-exports-to-vietnam-border-trade-suffers-massive-losses/

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

 

 

 

 

 

UPDATE
Suspected Anthrax Case in Nong Bua Lamphu Tests Negative – Authorities Continue Animal Testing

Picture courtesy of Matichon.

 

Health authorities have confirmed that a suspected anthrax case in Nong Bua Lamphu province has tested negative, easing fears in the local community following widespread social media speculation.

 

The patient, a 64-year-old man identified only as Mr. Thongsuk, from Nong Ruea subdistrict in Non Sang district, reportedly began experiencing symptoms on 23 May. He had not been involved in animal farming but was believed to have consumed raw minced pork (larb) at a local Bun Bang Fai rocket festival. Initial symptoms included itchy pustules on his back, later spreading to his arms, abdomen and shoulders, with black scabs eventually forming.

 

The patient sought medical treatment on 29 May. Initial gram-stain laboratory tests returned a positive result, prompting concern over a possible anthrax infection. Further testing was conducted by the Department of Medical Sciences under the Ministry of Public Health.

 

As of the morning of 31 May, officials confirmed that the patient’s samples showed no trace of anthrax DNA, according to the final laboratory results. Authorities have urged local residents and livestock farmers to remain calm.

 

Meanwhile, Nong Bua Lamphu provincial livestock officials, led by Ms. Wallapa Waraassavapat, have begun collecting samples from animals kept in the same area. It is suspected that the meat used in the raw dish may have come from one of these animals. Blood and tissue samples have been sent for testing, and results are expected on 1 June.

 

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise the public to avoid consuming raw meat to prevent food borne illnesses.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.