(KPL) The Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has imposed a temporary ban on meat imports from Thailand in response to an anthrax outbreak confirmed in Mukdahan Province, Thailand. The announcement was made by Mr. Souphavanh Keovilay, Deputy Director General of the Department of Livestock and Fisheries, in an interview with the Lao News Agency on May 12.

Thai authorities confirmed the outbreak in April. Anthrax, a serious bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, primarily affects livestock—cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats, pigs, and horses—but can also infect humans through contact with infected animals or contaminated products.

The bacteria are highly resilient and can survive in soil for extended periods. Grazing animals become infected by inhaling or ingesting spores, often leading to fatal blood poisoning. The infection can be spread through feces, saliva, milk, and blood, posing a serious risk to animal and human health.

Border Controls and Emergency Measures

In response, Lao authorities have directed all provincial and Vientiane Capital Departments of Agriculture and Forestry—especially in border provinces—to suspend the import and transit of all livestock and animal products from Thailand. The ban applies to cattle, buffaloes, horses, pigs, sheep, and goats and will remain in place until the outbreak is under control.

All international, local, and traditional checkpoints bordering Thailand are now required to enforce strict inspections and disease control measures. Vehicles entering from Thailand must be disinfected, while local authorities are intensifying surveillance of livestock and animal health.

Village officials, veterinary networks, and farmers are urged to report any suspected cases of anthrax. Animals that die suddenly must not be dissected, consumed, or sold. All suspicious livestock deaths must be reported immediately to the District Agriculture and Forestry Office for testing and containment.

Public Awareness and Vaccination

To reduce transmission risks, provincial and district authorities are rolling out public awareness campaigns on anthrax prevention, animal care, and hygiene. Emergency vaccination programs are also underway in high-risk areas.

Last year, Champasak Province reported three human cases of anthrax in Soukhouma District, after individuals consumed meat from animals that had died suddenly. All were hospitalized. In response, local authorities banned the sale and transport of animals, closed slaughterhouses, and prohibited consumption of meat from animals of unknown cause of death.

Human anthrax symptoms include skin lesions, gastrointestinal issues like abdominal pain and diarrhea, and severe respiratory problems. Authorities urge anyone with symptoms after animal contact to seek immediate medical care.

Meat Inspection and Food Supply Management

Mr. Khamla Sengdavong, General Director of the Food State Enterprise in Vientiane Capital, confirmed to media that all meat sold through facilities such as Factory Dondu undergoes rigorous veterinary inspection and meets safety standards.

He added that livestock intended for slaughter—such as buffaloes, cows, and pigs—must now undergo inspection 15 days before being moved from farms to factories. These procedures meet international standards.

In response to increased demand, meat production is expanding. Pork slaughter has risen from 450 to 550–600 pigs per day in 2025, a 20–25% increase over 2024. Chicken processing has also scaled up to 4,000 birds per day to meet factory supply needs.

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KPL