Saskatchewan cattle producers are being urged to vaccinate their cattle for anthrax after cases of the deadly disease were confirmed yesterday in three cattle in the Rural Municipality of Harris southwest of Saskatoon.
It is the second report of anthrax in the province this year. Several bison deaths from anthrax were confirmed earlier this month on a ranch northwest of North Battleford, Sask.
A bovine case was also confirmed near Fort Vermilion, Alta., this week.
Saskatchewan Agriculture issued a reminder about vaccination today after yesterday’s confirmation of the Harris area case.
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Anthrax spores can remain dormant in the soil for years and most often reappear in dry years when wetlands and sloughs dry up and animals forage in the newly accessible areas.
The spores can also travel in excessive runoff or appear after soil excavation.
Ruminants including cattle, bison, sheep and goats are highly susceptible to anthrax and can be infected by eating forage contaminated by spores. Horses can also be affected, but swine are less susceptible.
“Producers in regions that have experienced previous outbreaks of anthrax are strongly encouraged to vaccinate their animals,” said Saskatchewan Agriculture in a news release.
Animals who die of the illness are usually found dead with no apparent cause because anthrax acts so quickly. Carcasses of stock suspected of dying from anthrax should be protected from scavenging and not disturbed to avoid spread of the spores.
There is little risk to humans, but caution is required.
Suspected cases should be reported to a veterinarian immediately, the department said. The ministry will fund testing in Saskatchewan, and livestock will be quarantined if anthrax is confirmed.
“Costs related to carcass disposal, cleaning, disinfecting and any other management procedure to control anthrax, such as vaccination or treatment, are the responsibility of the producer,” said the news release.
