South Dakota animal health officials have confirmed the state’s first anthrax case of 2026 in a Meade County beef herd.
State Veterinarian Mendel Miller said cattle began dying while the cow-calf herd was grazing in Butte County, where the animals are believed to have been exposed. The cattle were later moved to Meade County, where symptoms continued. South Dakota State University’s Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory confirmed anthrax from samples submitted by the herd veterinarian. Adult cattle have since been vaccinated, and the herd was quarantined.
Miller urged ranchers who suspect anthrax to contact their veterinarian or the Animal Industry Board at 605-773-3321. Suspect carcasses should not be moved until a diagnosis is made.
