Case of Anthrax in Gegharkunik Province: 5 Individuals Referred to 'Nork' Infectious Disease Hospital, Ministry of Health

The Ministry of Health has received information regarding two residents of Geghovit community in the Martuni region of Gegharkunik province, who presented to the infectious disease unit of the Martuni Medical Center with ulcerated wounds on their fingers and wrist, characteristic of the cutaneous form of anthrax. The patients reported that they participated a few days ago in the cutting and handling of meat from a neighbor's cow.

To establish the cause-and-effect relationship of the cases, specialists from the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention of the Ministry of Health have traveled to the Geghovit community. As a result of joint visits by health workers and the efforts undertaken, symptoms characteristic of the cutaneous form of anthrax were found in six other individuals. Five of them have been referred to the 'Nork' infectious disease hospital for clinical assessment.

Samples were collected on-site from the five patients by the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and anthrax pathogen DNA was identified using polymerase chain reaction methodology. All patients have been provided with appropriate treatment, and medical surveillance has been instituted for the community's population.

The Food Safety Inspection Authority has been immediately notified about the cases. Currently, work is ongoing in collaboration with the Food Safety Inspection Authority, and health promotion on healthy lifestyles and dissemination of medical hygiene knowledge is being conducted among the community's residents concerning the prevention of anthrax.