DHAKA, Oct 5, 2025 (BSS)- In response to outbreaks of anthrax among cattle in several districts, the Department of Livestock Services (DLS) has initiated urgent and coordinated measures to prevent and control its spread.

Anthrax is a bacterial zoonotic disease that can spread from livestock to humans.

Local livestock offices in coordination with local administration are carrying out vaccination drives, health checkups, courtyard meetings, road meetings, leaflet distribution, and public awareness campaigns via loudspeakers.

The DLS has taken special initiatives to discriminate information in national newspapers, strengthen awareness programs with local administration, monitor affected areas, prevent slaughtering of sick animals, and ensure that all farm animals are brought under vaccination coverage, said a press release.

Under the ‘One Health’ program, the department is coordinating with local health authorities to raise public awareness. Officials are regularly conducting courtyard meetings and training workshops to educate people, advising them not to slaughter sick animals, avoid disposing of dead animals in open spaces or water, and instead bury the carcasses deeply. 

They also urge immediate contact with nearby veterinary hospitals or the LDS offices in case of any emergency.

Rangpur and Gaibandha districts have been identified as high-risk areas for anthrax, and special vaccination campaigns are being implemented there.

The Livestock Research Institute in Rangpur will supply approximately 3 million anthrax vaccines, with 2 million designated for Rangpur and Gaibandha districts alone.

Besides, following ministry guidance, the DLS has formed a high-level investigation team to assess the sources and situation of anthrax infection in Rangpur and Gaibandha. The team will inspect affected areas and submit a report shortly.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Department of Livestock, local administration, health authorities, elected representatives, and common people are working together to keep anthrax under control.