August 22, 2005

US reports anthrax outbreak in North Dakota

Over 300 cattle in the US state of North Dakota had been killed by anthrax, while at least 200 cattle died in South Dakota, according the government. Recently, two ranches in Texas State were also quarantined following the discovery of anthrax in cattle.

North Dakota has quarantined 85 areas, preventing the sales, butchering or transportation of animals. The state's veterinarian, Dr. Susan Keller, said producers in unaffected counties should keep a watchful eye for the disease, and immediately report any possible cases and unexpected deaths.  

She added that while the anthrax vaccine was effective and readily available, it took about a week to establish animal immunity.