VIENTIANE: As the Lao government warns of potential anthrax risks, people across the country are adjusting their daily routines and business practices to help prevent a possible outbreak.
Following reports of an anthrax outbreak in neighbouring countries, the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has issued a notice urging all sectors, including residents and businesses, to suspend the import and transit of livestock and related animal products from Thailand.
"Beef is one of my favourite dishes. I could eat grilled beef every day. But now, I have to be more cautious because I don't really know where the meat comes from. So I'm trying to cut down on beef and eat other types of meat instead," a 21-year-old student told Xinhua on Thursday (May 15).
Following the notice issued earlier this month, Lao authorities have increased monitoring of livestock farming, enforcing strict inspections of animal origins and health before and after slaughter.
Local authorities are also stepping up efforts to prevent livestock smuggling from neighbouring countries with outbreaks.
Although no anthrax cases have been detected in Laos, the warning has been enough for many Lao residents to take the issue seriously.
Chanhsouda, a resident of the Lao capital Vientiane, said that while she still eats meat, she is now much more cautious about its source.
"Anthrax is scary. People can get seriously sick from it, we have to keep that in mind," she said.
"My family and I only buy meat from sellers we know, and we make sure to cook everything thoroughly."
She admitted that before the news of the outbreak, she rarely thought about her food choices.
"I used to eat whatever looked good. But now, this disease reminds me every time I buy or cook food that it has to be clean and safe," she added.
Khambang, a butcher shop owner, said he welcomes the increased caution from customers.
"I think it's good that people are more careful now. To maintain trust and ensure our products are safe, I've improved our cleaning routines, started using gloves when handling meat, and made sure everything is properly stored," he explained.
"I also work directly with nearby farms so I can check the animals myself and make sure they're healthy, and that the meat is fresh every day."
He added that he fully supports the government's preventive measures.
"I'm doing my part to help stop the spread of anthrax, and I encourage everyone to stay cautious and take care of their health," he said.
Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacterium, which occurs naturally in soil and mainly affects livestock and wild animals.
People can get sick with anthrax if they have contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. - Xinhua
