Anthrax confirmed in RM of Piapot

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on August 25, 2022.

https://www.medicinehatnews.com@MedicineHatNews

Anthrax has been confirmed in nine animal deaths in the RM of Piapot, the Saskatchewan government announced Wednesday as it called on cattle producers to observe their animals and get them vaccinated.

The deadly bacteria can lay dormant in soil for years before it becomes active and infects animals as spores on forage grass after excessive rain or during excavation.

Grazing animals, like cattle, bison, sheep and goats are highly susceptible, and animals usually do not show signs of illness before death.

The province’s agriculture department is stressing that producers in areas of known anthrax activity should have animals vaccinated as a precaution to prevent the spread.

Anyone with a suspected case should not disturb the carcass, keep scavengers from it and immediately notify their local veterinarian to prevent further spread.

7
-6