Operational Biosurveillance

China: Agriculture Ministry Official Reports Zoonotic Disease Risk Among Earthquake Survivors

Report Type: Surveillance Report

Location: Yushu County, Qinghai Province, China

The director of the Veterinary Department under the Agriculture Ministry reports an increased risk of zoonotic disease activity, primarily anthrax and rabies, among the earthquake survivor population in Qinghai province. An anthrax vaccination campaign targeting the local animal population is underway and the launch of rabies vaccination activities for dogs is expected in the near future. Furthermore, the veterinary official noted concern over the corpses of more than 40,000 livestock killed in the April 14th earthquake, which may promote infectious disease transmission to humans. Disinfection and disposal of the animal carcasses is currently underway.  Similar to our risk assessment pertaining to Haiti, if the food security situation in Qinghai province deteriorates, the risk of infectious disease transmission stemming from the local animal population will increase.

Escalating Infectious Disease Risk Among Earthquake Survivors in China

Report Type:  Surveillance Report

Location:  Yushu County, Qinghai Province, China

Officials assessing infrastructure and the survivor population near the epicenter of the April 13th earthquake in the Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of Yushu located in Qinghai Province, China report an escalating risk of infectious disease transmission due to severely damaged sanitation facilities and water supplies.  Oxfam is reported to be engaging in hygiene information campaigns along with providing relief aid.  In addition, the Chinese Health Ministry is implementing prevention measures against potential transmission of Yersinia pestis, as plague is enzootic in the local marmot population.  Current information indicates no known disease outbreaks are active at this time.   Search and rescue efforts continue in the affected region, which is located in mountainous terrain with daily temperature falling below freezing and frequent precipitation occurring in the form of snow and rain.