People in several areas of Rangpur are scared because Anthrax, a disease from cows, has spread to humans. The outbreak is mostly in Pirgachha, Kaunia, and Mithapukur sub-districts.
11 people have been officially confirmed to have Anthrax in Rangpur. However, local people say the real number is much higher—up to 50 or even 200 people have been treated for the disease's signs. Two people died, but doctors aren't sure yet if Anthrax was the direct cause.
Most people got the infection by cutting or touching the meat of sick or dead cows. The germ was even found in beef kept in a freezer.
People in the neighboring Lalmonirhat district are so worried they are not buying meat, which is hurting the sellers.
Doctors said , "Don't worry," because the illness can be fixed with medicine. They said everyone must stop eating or touching meat from sick animals. To help, over 165,000 cows have been vaccinated. The government needs to teach people more about the danger and check on meat sellers.
