Two residents of the Republic of Chuvashia, possibly a married couple, were admitted to hospital after testing positive for anthrax. Regional health authorities confirmed that both patients are in moderate condition and are receiving specialized treatment. Hospital officials stated that medical teams are closely watching for any changes in their status and remain vigilant for potential complications.
As of March 15, officials reported that two individuals with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of anthrax were hospitalized in Chuvashia. They are under intensive care with appropriate therapy, and the prognosis for recovery is considered favorable. Medical staff continue daily assessments and monitor anyone who may have been exposed to the infected patients. Preventive treatment is being provided to those in contact with them.
A regulatory body, Rosselkhoznadzor, has launched an inquiry into the anthrax case in Chuvashia. Local reports indicate that the infected couple maintained a small farm, where they kept seven sheep and two cattle. The initial findings aim to determine how the infection originated and to establish any link to the animals involved.
Aleksey Palkin, head of the Chuvashia division of Rosselkhoznadzor, explained that inspectors examined the conditions on the farm at the time of slaughter, and whether the cattle were under veterinary supervision. He emphasized that the agency is acting within its authority to trace the source of the outbreak and to understand the transmission pathway. Investigators have traveled to the location to conduct on-site assessments.
Former regional leader Oleg Nikolaev announced via an official messaging channel that the health status of those who had contact with the patients remains stable. He noted that the affected individuals live in the Tsivilsky district and that an operational meeting was convened to address the incident. The Republic Sanitary and Anti-Epidemic Commission also participated in the discussions.
The joint procedures involve coordination with the federal sanitary service, the local veterinary service, and law enforcement authorities. A working protocol has been established to prevent further spread of the infection and to safeguard residents’ health. An update from the Telegram channel Mash suggested a hospitalized man with anthrax may have been involved in slaughter activities that day. The post alleged that a bull weighing roughly 700–900 kilograms could yield a significant amount of infected meat and speculated about its potential distribution. The post claimed that meat from the animal might have entered the market, and that samples for laboratory analysis were not available due to the reported sale of the product. The Mash post also stated that the investigation would identify the animal’s source within Chuvashia.
Medical experts warn that exposure to contaminated soil or contact with infected animals can spread anthrax among locals. Some specialists have noted that historical presence of anthrax in certain areas could allow infection through soil contact, especially when digging in contaminated ground. The pathogen can be released from an infected animal through vomiting and diarrhea, after which it can form spores in the environment and render the surrounding land hazardous for extended periods.
An investigator cited by national health authorities described the disease as serious and potentially fatal, while indicating that human-to-human transmission is extremely unlikely. The two detected cases in Chuvashia do not indicate an impending national epidemic, and human infections are typically linked to diseased animals such as cattle. A medical television host and commentator emphasized the importance of proper meat handling and professional slaughter practices to minimize risk. He also praised the social protection and disease-control efforts of the public health authorities who monitor sporadic anthrax cases and respond to suspected exposures.
Experts reiterate core prevention advice: avoid purchasing meat from unverified sources or engaging in the slaughter of non-professionally inspected animals. Public health agencies stress the importance of timely interventions and containment measures to prevent further spread. In general, anthrax presents in several forms. Skin infection begins as itching with a developing purulent spot, progressing to a painless ulcer with a dark crust over a few days. The pulmonary form brings fever, chills, chest pain, and heavy sputum, potentially leading to respiratory failure within days. The intestinal form starts with abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and bloody stools. The incubation period typically ranges from two to seven days, though individual cases may vary. Authorities continue to assess the situation and coordinate responses to safeguard the population.