ND Department of Agriculture Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE JULY 29, 2005

ANTHRAX NOW FOUND IN NORTHEAST N.D. LIVESTOCK

BISMARCK – Anthrax has now been confirmed in three locations in northeast North Dakota, bringing the state’s total to 60 locations in eight counties.

“More than ever, we need producers throughout the state to be on the lookout for this disease and to immediately report any acute illness or sudden deaths among their animals,” said Dr. Susan Keller, state veterinarian. “Producers should also consult their veterinarians as soon as possible about having their animals vaccinated against the disease.”

Keller said all herds with anthrax-infected animals have been quarantined and are being vaccinated. She estimates that more than 200 cattle, horses, bison, llamas and farmed deer and elk have died from the disease so far this year.

Up until now, this year’s outbreak had been confined to southeastern North Dakota, including Barnes (6 locations), Dickey (5), LaMoure (7), Ransom (34) and Sargent (5) counties. The latest report includes single locations in Grand Forks, Traill and Walsh counties.

“Historically, anthrax has been most frequently reported in the northeast, but in fact, it has occurred in almost every part of the state,” Keller said. “These new cases do not mean the disease is spreading, but that favorable conditions for the disease to occur are more widespread.”

Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis. Spores of the bacteria can lie dormant in the ground for decades and become vegetative under ideal soil and weather conditions. 

“The vaccine is effective and readily available,” Keller said. “Animals at risk should be vaccinated as soon as possible to allow them to develop immunity to the disease.”

Keller also said she has received numerous calls about disposal of carcasses.

“Burning carcasses and burying both the burned remains and the soil immediately under the carcass is the best means to clean a site,” she said. “Although there is not a major health concern, we recommend wearing long sleeves, gloves and a face mask when handling carcasses.”

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MEDIA:  For more information, please call Dr. Susan Keller or Dr. Beth Carlson at (701) 328-2655.