Anthrax responsible for cattle deaths in South Dakota

According to the South Dakota Animal Industry Board, anthrax is responsible for recent cattle deaths in that state. State Veterinarian, Dr. Dustin Oedekoven, said eight cows died in Clark County and that at least four adult cattle died suddenly the week of June 18 in a herd in Bon Homme County. Neither herd had been vaccinated against anthrax. Anthrax spores survive indefinitely in contaminated alkaline soils and nearly all areas of South Dakota have the potential of experiencing an outbreak under ideal climatic conditions. Significant climate changes such as drought, floods and wind can expose anthrax spores to grazing livestock. Livestock producers are advised that anthrax should be suspected in cases of sudden death loss. Anthrax is transmissible to people and other animals. Precaution and veterinarian guidance should be taken in handling, moving, or disturbing carcasses that are suspected to have died of anthrax. — WLJ