The health ministry has notified medical facilities nationwide to immediately report any patient exhibiting symptoms of exposure to anthrax, ministry officials said Friday.
The Health, Labor and Welfare Ministry issued the notice in the wake of anthrax infections in Florida, the officials said.
According to officials, the facilities are to report any suspected anthrax cases to public health centers and the National Institute of Infectious Diseases.
The law on the prevention of infectious diseases states that notification is required within seven days from the time the patient's diagnosis is confirmed.
Anthrax infection is potentially fatal but is difficult to diagnose, as some symptoms are the same as those of the common cold or other illnesses.
This is why the ministry has asked the facilities for notification at the stage of suspected infection.
Anthrax is caused by a bacterium most commonly found in animals such as cattle. Humans can be infected if a cut or abrasion comes in contact with contaminated wool or hides. It is not contagious.