Bismarck, N.D. (RFD-TV) — North Dakota officials have confirmed a second case of anthrax in Stark County this year, urging livestock producers to stay vigilant and review vaccination plans. The case, identified Thursday in a beef cattle herd, was confirmed by the North Dakota State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab.
“This is the second case we have had in Stark County this year, and we have had cases in nearby counties in the past,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Andress. “Producers in known affected areas should consult their veterinarians about risk factors and vaccination needs. If producers see unusual pasture losses, they should contact their local veterinarian immediately.”
In addition to monitoring their herds for unexplained deaths, producers are also encouraged to work closely with veterinarians to collect and submit diagnostic samples promptly, and to keep a close eye on weather and pasture conditions.
“Cattle producers should be aware that the threat of anthrax is increased when areas receive high amounts of rainfall as well as prolonged, dry conditions,” says Dr. Jake Galbreath, North Dakota State University Extension (NDSU) veterinarian.
Anthrax vaccines are effective but require more than a week to establish immunity. Annual boosters are recommended to maintain protection.
“If anthrax is confirmed, all cattle should be vaccinated immediately, said SDSU Extension experts. “A commercial vaccine is available for cattle, sheep, goats, swine, and horses. It is a 1cc dose that is administered subcutaneously (under the skin) in the neck for cattle. A booster vaccination in two to three weeks may be recommended when anthrax is present. The vaccine is then boostered annually.”
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring noted that while anthrax has been most common in northeast, southeast, and south-central North Dakota, the disease has been found in nearly every part of the state.
“A few anthrax cases are reported in North Dakota almost every year,” Goehring said, adding that livestock affected in past outbreaks have included cattle, bison, horses, sheep, llamas, and farmed deer and elk.
North Dakota saw just one case of anthrax in 2024, but 25 cases were reported the previous year in Grant, Adams, and Hettinger Counties. The state’s worst outbreak occurred in 2005, when more than 500 animal deaths were confirmed in the Red River Valley and Sheyenne River Valley areas, with total losses estimated at over 1,000 head.
Anthrax, caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, can persist in soil for decades and becomes active under certain conditions, such as heavy rainfall, flooding, or drought. Animals typically contract the disease by grazing or consuming contaminated forage or water.
For more information, including an anthrax factsheet, visit the North Dakota Dept. of Agriculture website: www.ndda.nd.gov/diseases/anthrax.
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