Epizootiological-Epidemiological Situation on Anthrax in the Altai Territory and the Republic of Altai (1985–2015)

Abstract

Objective of the study is to analyze the situation on anthrax in the Altai Territory and the Republic of Altai in 1985–2015. Materials and methods. Utilized were statistical and report forms provided by the Rospotrebnadzor, veterinary, and Phytosanitary Surveillance Service institutions in the Republic of Altai and Altai Territory, as well as by Altai Plague Control Station. Laboratory investigations of Bacillus anthracis cultures, field and clinical samples was conducted in accordance with Methodological Recommendations 4.2.2413- 08. Results and conclusions. Between 1985–2015, in the Altai Territory, an expressed unfavorable situation on anthrax was observed, defined by the large number of stationary potentially hazardous areas (SPHA) (1262 sites) and their high density (7.68); registration of six novel SPHA in five separate districts; and excess of long-term average annual morbidity rates among live-stock animals (0.111 per 100 thousand animals) and the population (0.022±0.001 о /оооо). The Republic of Altai is classified as a territory with relatively favorable epizootiological-epidemiological situation on anthrax. Current situation on anthrax in this region is characterized by domination of old non-manifesting SPHA; infections among cattle stock on farms and private subsidiary holdings; and registration of sporadic cases among non-vaccinated rural population. The major cause of human infection was participation in compulsory slaughtering, cutting, and skinning of cattle, as well as in cooking of the infected meat (88.2 %). It manifested itself in cutaneous anthrax (94.1 %). Indicated has been an ineffective organization of sanitary-veterinary measures in private holdings and on the farms.