By Scout Nelson
North Dakota livestock producers are encouraged to remain alert for signs of anthrax as hot and dry weather continues across many parts of the state. Although no active anthrax cases are currently reported, current weather conditions create an environment where the disease can become a concern for cattle and other livestock.
Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, which naturally exists in soil. The bacteria produce spores that can survive for many years because they resist heat, cold, and common disinfectants. Dr. Jake Galbreath, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian, explained that these spores can become active when cattle met them under favorable conditions.
"When these spores come in contact with susceptible cattle, they can 'hatch' and cause infection, leading to disease and death,” says Dr. Jake Galbreath, North Dakota State University Extension veterinarian.
The risk of anthrax increases after periods of heavy rainfall followed by long dry weather. Rain can disturb the soil and expose spores, while dry conditions encourage cattle to graze closer to the ground or around shrinking water sources, increasing their chance of exposure.
In many cases, the first sign of anthrax is the sudden death of cattle. Blood may also appear from the nose, mouth, or anus. Since sudden death may also result from lightning strikes, Clostridial diseases, or blue-green algae poisoning, producers should always contact a veterinarian to determine the actual cause.
If anthrax is suspected, producers should never move or open the carcass. Exposure to air allows the bacteria to produce more spores, increasing contamination of the surrounding area. Veterinarians should collect blood samples and send them to the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for testing.
“If anthrax is confirmed, all cattle should be vaccinated immediately,” warns Dr. Galbreath.
Commercial vaccines are available for cattle, sheep, goats, horses, and swine. A booster vaccination may also be recommended during an outbreak, followed by annual boosters for continued protection. Veterinarians can advise whether antibiotics are needed during an outbreak.
Producers should also move healthy cattle away from affected pastures whenever possible because protective immunity develops about one week after vaccination.
Since anthrax can infect humans, producers should avoid handling infected carcasses. Burning the carcass and surrounding soil in a nearby trench is the preferred disposal method. If burning is not possible because of dry conditions, deep burial is another recommended option.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf
Categories: North Dakota, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Dairy Cattle, Weather