The Latest News on Anthrax Spreading in Bangladesh

Fearing further deterioration in the situation the Government has finally formed National Task Force on 13th September to deal with the Anthrax virus and its rapid spreading in Bangladesh.

As thought before the panic of the virus has had some negative impacts on the performance of Eid this year in Bangladesh.  The menu did not include any beef or mutton on the Eid—the fast-breaking festival after the month of Ramadan. News media reported slaughtering of Anthrax affected cattle by some corrupt butchery men in Savar. The blood was drained out in the open. The next day many birds including crows were seen dying who poured there in search of food and insects. The pathetic pictures were telecasted by some TV channels including Channel I in Bangladesh.  

Bangladesh earns a lot of foreign currency through export of leather and leather made items. Anthrax has badly affected this sector also. This year after Eid, the tannery industries experienced 80% decline in the collection of cattle skins, and commented that if the Anthrax spreading cannot be controlled immediately it will also badly affect the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha—the next Muslim festival which is usually performed by slaughtering cattle, and consequently affect the tannery industries throughout the country. Any bad effect on tannery and leather industries by Anthrax spreading will ultimately affect the national economy.

Experts are now trying to find out the causes of Anthrax spreading. The virus has already affected more than 500 people in the country. Despite heavy checks to ensure Anthrax affected cattle are not slaughtered for sale, there are reports of violation here and there. And these violations are taking place because of some corrupt officials who are receiving bribes and rendering certificates of Anthrax free cattle to cattle traders.