TEMPO.CO, Kulon Progo - Dozens of people at Purwosari, Yogyakarta, was infected by anthrax virus after consuming anthrax infested beef. Regional Secretary of Kulon Progo, Astungkara, stated that medical team had already taken samples from the beef kept in a refrigerator owned by the local.

“The lab result shows that there is an anthrax indication. The incident took place in Purwosari Village, Girimulyo; specifically at three locations namely Ngroto, Ngaglik, and Panggung. The authority has checked the three villages and found 16 people infected by anthrax,” Astungkara said.

The victims were not isolated since they did not show symptoms of nausea and dizziness; there were only some visible bumps. The victims have been treated and their conditions are starting to improve.

The authority has investigated the incident and found the possible cause of it. It turns out that on November 12, 2016, in Ngaglik village, a cattle owned by local resident, Ngatijo, had fallen ill. They then slaughtered the ill cattle and had its meat was given to the local villagers.

“The next step is to [conduct] a lab test by Wates Center For Veterinary, [they’ll] take a sample from the meat that was stored in the refrigerator. The meat is currently being tested by BBVet,” Astungkara said.

He also stated that local officials are currently monitoring cattle distribution. The Public Health Office has already reported the incident to Yogyakarta regional government and the Health Ministry.

The government is currently searching the origin of anthrax. “[Whether] if it’s localized or from another region,” Astungkara said.

ANTARA