Anthrax in Koraput, India: A 15 year retrospective analysis of epidemiological trends, seasonal patterns and vaccine coverage

Due to its potential use as a bioterrorism agent, anthrax remains a disease of global public health concern, particularly in endemic regions. In India, anthrax is enzootic, especially in the eastern and southern states. Periodic outbreaks in both animals and humans have been reported from tribal and rural areas with poor infrastructure, where livestock rearing practices and socio-cultural traditions contribute to disease transmission. In this study, we analyzed anthrax outbreaks in Koraput district over last about one and a half decades and identified key epidemiological patterns and the vaccine coverage to guide future prevention and control measures. Anthrax in Koraput shows a recurrent seasonal pattern linked to environmental spore viability and intensified human-animal contact. The study highlighted that a sustained, high-coverage livestock vaccination implemented through an integrated One Health framework with community engagement and inter-sectoral coordination is critical to interrupt transmission and protect vulnerable tribal and rural populations.