Anthrax in Pakistan

Abstract

Anthrax is a highly fatal zoonotic disease caused by a Gram-positive and spore-forming bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. The epidemiological situation of anthrax is unstable worldwide, and outbreaks have been reported in all the continents and commonly cause high mortality in domestic and wild herbivores as well as several mammals and bird species. The disease is endemic in Pakistan, and outbreaks were reported in domestic animals and wildlife species in limited zones. Sporadic cases also reemerged infrequently in some areas, and anthrax became a public health concern in Pakistan. Bacillus anthracis has been isolated from soil samples in different localities of Pakistan, and the risk of the emergence of anthrax is increased after flooding that has occurred recently. Therefore, this review aims to provide an update on the current trends and incidence of anthrax in Pakistan to increase awareness and will be useful for stakeholders and healthcare providers to suspect and manage anthrax.