Document Type : policy brief
Authors
1
Department of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Provincial Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
2
Nutrition and Food Security Research Center, Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
3
Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Isfahan, Iran
4
Vice President of University Health, Head of Provincial Health Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
10.48305/jims.v44.i871.1317
Abstract
This analytical document examines the epidemiological trends of Anthrax in Isfahan Province over a decade (2011–2021) based on data collected from authoritative sources. The primary findings indicate a distinct geographical pattern of the disease, with a major concentration in the western and southwestern regions of the province, and a significant correlation with livestock-related occupational activities. The seasonal peak of incidence was observed during the spring and summer months, along with a relative increase in cases between 2013 and 2017. Based on this evidence, five key policy options for the control and prevention of Anthrax were identified and analyzed: 1) Strengthening livestock vaccination in high-risk areas, 2) Establishing a seasonal surveillance and monitoring system prior to high-risk periods, 3) Education and empowerment of livestock farmers and agriculturists, 4) Increasing supervision over livestock entry and movement, and 5) Launching mobile laboratories in rural areas. The prioritization of these options—based on their impact on the disease transmission cycle, feasibility regarding provincial capacities, and expert consensus is as follows: Strengthening livestock vaccination was identified as the first priority due to its maximum impact on disease reduction. Subsequently, seasonal surveillance systems (due to their essential role in early detection and rapid response) and community education (as a complement to ensure the sustained effectiveness of other interventions) are placed in the next priorities. Options regarding livestock movement supervision and the development of mobile laboratories are proposed as supportive and long-term measures.
Highlights
Abolfazl Hajari: Google Scholar
Sahebjan Torkian: Google Scholar
Reza Fadaei Nobari : Google Scholar
Mehrdad Zeinalian : Google Scholar
Hamid Galehdari : Google Scholar
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