In response to an anthrax outbreak in neighboring Laos, which has affected at least 54 people and resulted in several cattle deaths, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has instructed Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew to step up surveillance and preventive measures against the disease, particularly in border areas. Anthrax, a highly infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, can spread from animals to humans. The Thai Ministry of Public Health is working closely with local agencies to monitor the situation and has advised the public to report any sick or dead cattle and to seek medical attention for any unusual symptoms. Thailand has not seen any anthrax cases since 2001.