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Anthrax - Frequently
Asked Questions
Canadian
Food Inspection Agency Anthrax Map
What causes Anthrax?
Anthrax is caused by bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. When an animal infected
with the disease dies, the bacteria leave the animal and turns into spores which
live in the soil. These spores are extremely resistant and can survive in the
soil through extremes in temperature and moisture. Also to be noted is that
anthrax is a zoonotic disease, which means it can be transferred to other animal
species and humans. However, human infections are extremely rare and can easily
be prevented. They can also be treated with a variety of antibiotics.
Where does it come from?
The spores survive in the soil for a long time. They prefer neutral or alkaline,
calcareous soils. The spores remain in the soil until conditions are right for
them to re-emerge. When the soil moisture, temperature and vegetation are right,
the spores become active again. When animals graze on areas where spores are
present they ingest the bacteria from the vegetation, or soil. Conditions that
favour the re-emergence of the anthrax bacteria include warm, moist conditions,
and periods of flooding and drying. Cases of naturally-occurring anthrax are
reported every year in Canada, particularly in locations where these climatic
conditions are present. The most recent positive cases in Saskatchewan were
reported in 2004, 2001 and 2000. By comparison, the province of Manitoba reported
cases in 2005, 2003, 2001 and 2000 and the province of Alberta reported cases
in 2001, 2000 and 1999.
When should I call a
Veterinarian?
Symptoms vary, and can occur at various speeds, some being slower, while others
are very fast acting. In most cases animals are found dead. Symptoms, when seen,
include staggering, shortness of breath, trembling, collapse, a short period
of convulsions and death. These symptoms are usually quite rapid. In acute cases
you will see a rise in body temperature, cardiac distress and staggering. Also
common are bloody discharges from body openings (i.e., the nose). Dead animals
should not be moved or opened, as this will allow the bacteria to form spores
that can spread to previously unaffected areas. Anthrax is a reportable
disease. Contact your local veterinarian immediately if anthrax is suspected.
They will contact the Canadian Food Inspection Agency if required.
How do you treat it?
Can it be prevented?
Follow the advice of your veterinarian as every situation is different. Early
diagnosis and treatment is important because of the rapid action of the disease.
If you suspect anthrax, call your veterinarian immediately. Anthrax can be treated
with antibiotics and/or vaccination.
Is there any need to
restrict public access to my property to stop the spread of the disease?
Many thousands of anthrax spores are required to cause an infection. The negligible
amount that could be introduced to your property by a casual visitor or a vehicle
poses virtually no risk. If you find a dead animal on your property that shows
signs of an anthrax infection (as described elsewhere in this document), please
contact your local veterinarian. Do not disturb or open the carcass until an
assessment is made.
Can animals other
than cattle get the disease?
Although all mammals are susceptible to anthrax, it is primarily a disease
of herbivores. Cattle, sheep, goats and horses are highly susceptible.
Laboratory animals such as guinea pigs, rabbits and mice readily contract
the disease. Omnivores, like pigs, and carnivores, such as dogs and cats,
are less susceptible and can sometimes be exposed to the bacterium repeatedly
before becoming infected. Birds and wildlife also appear to be at a lower
risk for anthrax.
References:
Producers looking for more information on anthrax should contact their local
veterinarian.
News Release
July 6, 2006 - Agriculture
Knowledge Centre Bulletin: Wet Conditions Increase Anthrax Risk
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