September 13, 2024

Anthrax confirmed in Wyoming, US cattle herds after decades

Anthrax has been confirmed in multiple beef herds in Carbon County, Wyoming, US, marking the first case of anthrax in Wyoming cattle since the 1970s, Bovine Veterinarian reported.

The diagnosis was confirmed by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory (WSVL) on August 31, 2024. Both WSVL and private veterinarians played a key role in identifying the outbreak, which has affected several herds in the region.

Wyoming State Veterinarian Dr Hallie Hasel reported, "We have approximately 50 to 60 head that have died at this time due to anthrax."

The outbreak is currently localised, but investigations are ongoing to determine if there may be additional losses that have not yet been identified.

Anthrax, a bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, occurs naturally worldwide. The bacteria form spores that can survive in soil for years, leading to sporadic outbreaks. Such outbreaks often follow periods of drought, which are then followed by heavy rainfall. Livestock and wild animals can become infected by inhaling or ingesting spores present in contaminated soil, plants, or water.

Signs of anthrax in livestock include sudden death, weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, fever, and bloody diarrhoea.

Dr Hasel highlighted the swift response from state agencies and private veterinarians following the diagnosis. "Protecting animal and human health is critical upon the diagnosis of a zoonotic disease," she said.

The Wyoming Livestock Board will continue working closely with ranchers and veterinarians to contain the spread of the disease and limit human exposure. Measures include recommendations for proper carcass disposal and vaccination. The anthrax vaccine, approved for multiple livestock species, is known to be highly effective.

-      Bovine Veterinarian