Discuss Anthrax Concerns with a Veterinarian

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

The number of dead cattle attributed to anthrax reached 273 on 59 premises in Saskatchewan as of July 25, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

The vast majority of the cases have occurred in the northeast region of the province, where a total of 14 rural municipalities have thus far been affected. Most are located in areas that experienced heavy rainfall, flooding and excessive moisture this spring.

However, the spores that cause anthrax can potentially be buried anywhere across the prairies, according to Dr. Sandra Stephens with the Saskatoon branch of the CFIA.

"We've recently had a new case spring up in Chaplin, in the southwest part of the province, and a small outbreak in southern Manitoba," she said. "So we're still seeing a few new cases."

Stephens noted that cattle producers generally remain concerned about the disease. She is reminding farmers to speak with their veterinarians if they are particularly worried about the risk to their animals.

"Many producers are wondering whether they should vaccinate their cattle against anthrax," she said. "I would urge them to talk to their veterinarian. These professionals can provide them with the best possible advice on the matter."

Anthrax is spread by spores that can remain in the soil for long periods of time, then rise to the surface when there is excessive moisture or drought. Cattle can also be at risk when standing water dries up, revealing grazing areas that normally wouldn't be exposed. Excavation work done on some farms may likewise cause spores to emerge.

While Saskatchewan producers appear most concerned about cattle, Stephens noted that anthrax can occur in all mammals, particularly grazing animals. As a result, horses, swine, bison, sheep and goats are also susceptible, as are wild cervids such as whitetail deer.

Animals that are determined to have died from the disease are either burned or buried to prevent further contamination; however, it is impossible to know whether anthrax might arise or recur in a given area, and under what conditions. That's why producers are particularly well-served seeking professional input from their veterinarian, Stephens suggested.

"The good news is that there is an effective vaccine against anthrax, and it's not very expensive," she said, noting that the cost of the vaccine generally ranges from $2 to $2.50 per animal.

For media inquiries, contact:
Robin Locke, Communications Officer, CFIA
(403) 292-6733

For more information about anthrax, contact:
1-800-O-CANADA
(1-800-622-6232)