On August 14, an important press conference on the topic "Preventive measures for anthrax" was held at the Regional Communications Service in Shymkent. The event was attended by Yerlan Adenov, Head of the Veterinary Department of the Shymkent City Department of Agriculture, and Aigul Turymbetova, Deputy Head of the Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control of Shymkent.

At the press conference, experts spoke extensively about the nature of anthrax, its sources of transmission, and ways to prevent and protect against it. Anthrax is a highly dangerous anthropozoonotic infectious disease common to humans and animals. Its causative agent is the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which is known for its exceptional resistance in the natural environment. Bacteria can survive in the soil in the form of spores for tens, even hundreds of years. Therefore, conducting scientific excavations or construction work in areas where the epidemic has been previously registered is considered extremely dangerous.

According to experts, in Shymkent and its surrounding areas, preventive vaccinations and diagnostic tests against highly dangerous infectious diseases, including anthrax, are carried out regularly and regularly according to the approved plan. These works are carried out thanks to the coordinated actions of the veterinary service and sanitary and epidemiological surveillance bodies.

Precautions and public warning
Experts have given the population a number of specific recommendations to protect themselves from the disease. First of all, it is necessary to purchase meat and meat products only from outlets that have passed official control and meet sanitary requirements. Individuals or entrepreneurs must adhere to strict hygiene standards when working with meat and livestock products.

Compliance with veterinary and sanitary rules when caring for pets is one of the main conditions for preventing the spread of the disease. Slaughtering of animals should be carried out only at specially designated slaughterhouses, with the permission of veterinarians. If a pet is found to be infected with anthrax, it is strictly forbidden to slaughter it yourself and use it for food. In addition, annual vaccination of pets is mandatory.

Comparison with previous years' experiences
Such information and preventive measures aimed at preventing anthrax are not being held in Shymkent for the first time. For example, in 2023, several field explanatory meetings were organized in the city on this topic, explaining the importance of vaccination to residents in microdistricts and private farms with developed livestock farming. At that time, the main emphasis was placed on face-to-face work with private farm owners in rural areas.

In addition to the prevention campaign in 2024, special lectures were held in schools and colleges, as it was recognized as important to increase awareness among young people about the dangers of the disease and ways to prevent it. Also, the practice of distributing videos and infographics on social networks was used, which significantly increased the level of access to information by the population.

The 2025 conference is unique in that it will focus on prevention measures not only for those involved in agriculture, but also for all urban residents. This approach reminds us that anthrax is not just a rural problem, but a common security issue for all members of society.

A multidisciplinary approach to risk prevention
Anthrax, despite its rarity, is still a disease that has not lost its relevance. It is mainly registered in regions where livestock farming is practiced. The persistence of the pathogen in the soil for many years prevents the complete eradication of the disease. Therefore, veterinary control, sanitary supervision and public awareness are equally important.

During the conference, experts explained not only a list of preventive measures, but also an algorithm of actions in case of a disease outbreak. This includes immediate actions such as isolating livestock and people, disinfecting the outbreak site, and placing those in contact with them under medical supervision.

Conclusion and future plans
At the end of the event, the participants noted the need for systematic information work on the prevention of anthrax. By the end of the year, the city will hold seminars for livestock owners, training courses on compliance with sanitary requirements, and a large-scale information campaign explaining the importance of preventive vaccinations.

Comparatively, the scope and coverage of preventive work in 2025 are broader than in previous years. This was facilitated by the active use of information technologies, the strengthening of the material and technical base of veterinary services, and increased state support.

According to experts, preventing dangerous diseases such as anthrax is the responsibility of every citizen, not just government agencies. Taking simple precautions is the surest way to protect not only yourself but also those around you from a dangerous epidemic.