MALAYSIA has been anthrax-free since 1976, with no cases reported, as confirmed by the Veterinary Services Department (DVS) on May 11, 2025.
Following a fatal human anthrax case in Thailand linked to cattle slaughter, DVS is on high alert, ensuring no animals or products from Thailand’s high-risk areas enter Malaysia.
The zoonotic disease, caused by Bacillus anthracis, can be deadly to livestock and humans. DVS urged farmers to report symptoms like high fever in animals and enhance biosecurity ahead of Hari Raya Qurban, with strict veterinary inspections for imported livestock.
According to DVS, it can cause a high mortality rate among livestock. Common clinical signs in animals include high fever, which may cause sudden death.
“At present, we remain vigilant and have requested assurance from the Thai authorities that no animals or animal products from high-risk anthrax areas are being exported to Malaysia,” said DVS in a statement. —May 11, 2025
Main image: Live Science
