More than 50 cattle and 1 moose have died of anthrax in the past month.
Anthrax has been confirmed in multiple beef herds located in Carbon County, Wyoming. This is the first confirmed anthrax in Wyoming cattle since the 1970s. Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory confirmed the diagnosis late Saturday afternoon, August 31. Both WSVL and private veterinarians were essential in the diagnosis of anthrax impacting several herds in the region.
Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a naturally occurring organism with worldwide distribution. The spore-forming bacteria may survive in the soil for years to decades, resulting in sporadic outbreaks which usually occur after periods of drought followed by heavy rain. Domestic and wild animals may become infected when they breathe or ingest spores in contaminated soil, plants, or water. Clinical signs of anthrax in livestock include sudden death, weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, fever, and bloody diarrhea.
“Multiple stage agencies and private veterinarians responded quickly following the anthrax diagnosis by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory. Protecting animal and human health is critical upon diagnosis of a zoonotic disease,” said Dr. Hallie Hasel, Wyoming State Veterinarian. “The Wyoming Livestock Board will continue working with producers and private veterinarians to reduce further spread and limit human exposure through recommendations for carcass disposal and vaccination. Anthrax vaccine is approved for multiple livestock species and highly effective.”
A public meeting was held at the Elk Mountain Fire Hall, Wednesday, 9/4, 7:00 pm, with participation from multiple agencies.
Owners of livestock experiencing clinical signs consistent with anthrax or sudden death should contact their private veterinary practitioner or the Wyoming Livestock Board, 307.777.7515.
