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The recent anthrax threat in our country has made
Americans aware of the implications of the disease in
humans. What if our cattle were to become
infected?
Anthrax is a naturally occurring disease that is
very stable and can survive as spores in soil for
years. Animals infected with anthrax die
quickly, within hours to a few days after exposure.
If diagnosed early enough, some animals my survive if
treated with penicillin or tetracyclines.
Outbreaks can occur after contaminated soil has
been disturbed: after heavy rains, during a
drought, or if soil is excavated. Often
outbreaks occur where there has been one in the past.
Signs/Symptoms
of Anthrax:
-High
fever
-Muscle
tremors
-Respiratory
distress and convulsions
-After
death, there my be bloody discharges, rapid bloating,
lack of rigor mortis, and the presence of unclotted
blood. These secrections will contaminate the
ground and spores will develop.
Protecting
Animals During an Outbreak:
-If
anthrax has been diagnosed in your herd, all cattle
should be vaccinated with the anthrax vaccine.
This vaccine should only be administered by your
veterinarian.
-Animals
that show early symptoms should immediately be treated
with antibiotics.
-Vaccinated,
healthy cattle should be moved to new facilities.
How
to Handle Dead Animals:
-Do
not open the body for inspection. When exposed
to air, anthrax changes into spores, which can be
carried in the wind or live in the soil for years.
-Do
not salvage ANY body parts (hides, horns, etc.)
Anthrax can survive even if bones are bleached.
-If
possible, burn the carcass where it lies, otherwise
bury it in a 10 foot deep trench and cover with lime.
-If
the animal was in a barn, burn the bedding, manure,
and any other matter around the animal. Use an
ammonia-based disinfectant labeled for anthrax to
disinfect equipment and trailers.
If
you suspect an outbreak of anthrax, contact your
veterinarian.
Source:
National Cattlemen's Beef Association
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