Revised July 2006

Anthrax Disease

Cause of Anthrax

Anthrax is generally a disease of livestock, especially cattle. It is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis. The disease has occurred in cattle in Manitoba in 2000, 2001 and 2003 and in cattle and horses in 2005 and 2006. Distribution has recently been limited to the southern part of the province (note Anthrax in Manitoba map  dated Aug 10, 2006)

Threat of Anthrax

The disease is generally found in most regions of the world where livestock are raised. If identified early, it may be treated but generally control is by vaccination.

Symptoms of Anthrax Disease in Cattle

The symptoms are difficult to describe because the disease kills the animals so rapidly. There may be high body temperatures, bloody discharges and swelling of the various body parts. The symptoms can be similar to blackleg and malignant oedema in cattle because of the sudden death.

What to Do

Be watchful for any unusual deaths that occur suddenly and get an accurate diagnosis. Your veterinarian will notify the proper authorities. This is a reportable disease in Canada.

Table of Contents

• Cause of Anthrax
• Threat of Anthrax
• Symptoms of Anthrax
• What to Do
• Prevention
• Links

Other documents of Interest

• Anthrax in Manitoba map  dated Aug 24, 2006 REVISED
• DISEASE ADVISORY-3 Anthrax, July 28, 2006 (PDF format)
• Anthrax Spore Vaccine - Colorado Serum Company Package Insert (PDF format)
• Unified Anthrax Recommendations for Manitoba, May 2006 (PDF format)
• Reminder to Vaccinate Against Anthrax (PDF format)
• 2005 Anthrax Outbreak in Manitoba (PDF format)

Prevention

An appropriate vaccination for anthrax is available for cattle but it is generally not cost effective because of the sporadic nature of the disease from year to year. Vaccination is only advised in those herds where there has been a recent history of anthrax in the immediate area where the cattle are raised. In Manitoba, this would include a small portion of the southeast part of the province.

Links:

• The Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• The United States Department of Agriculture - short descriptive summary on anthrax
• North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension Service
• College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota - summary on Anthrax 
• University of Wisconsin - good description of the anthrax organism with pictures