Anthrax outbreak in Stefanovo, Bulgaria hospitalizes three people

An anthrax outbreak has been confirmed in the village of Stefanovo, located in the Lovech region of Bulgaria. The outbreak originated at a livestock farm housing 205 cattle.

Three individuals have tested positive for anthrax and have been hospitalized: two members of the farm owner's family and one employee. A total of 21 people have been identified as having had contact with the infection, including the village mayor's representative, police officers, and employees from the Regional Food Safety Directorate in Lovech. These contacts have been provided with consultations from infectious disease specialists in Pleven.

The incident began after a cow showed signs of illness on August 16. The owner slaughtered the animal and stored the meat in a separate freezer, transporting it in a private vehicle. The owner has denied selling, gifting, or distributing the meat.

Veterinary authorities have taken immediate measures to contain the spread. All 205 cattle at the affected farm, as well as 181 sheep from three other livestock facilities in Stefanovo, have been vaccinated against anthrax.