In a recent press release, the Minnesota Board of Animal Health (BAH) confirmed the presence of anthrax in cattle in northwestern Minnesota. This marks the first recorded case of anthrax in the state in over a decade. Following the detection of the disease in a horse and cattle in Kittson County, the affected property has been placed under quarantine.
The last reported anthrax case in Minnesota was identified in a cow from Pennington County back in June 2013. Historically, anthrax outbreaks have been concentrated in northwest Minnesota, with rare occurrences in other parts of the state. This is largely due to the fact that livestock can be protected through vaccination against the disease.
Dr. Katie Cornille, responsible for overseeing the BAH’s bovine programs, explained that the state’s proactive measures, such as widespread vaccinations, have significantly reduced the number of anthrax cases. However, in light of the recent detection in Kittson County, livestock producers who graze their animals in and around the area are advised to consult their veterinarians about vaccinating their animals, if they have not already done so.
Anthrax typically emerges during the summer and is caused by a spore-forming bacterium. Factors such as rainstorms, flooding, or excavation can trigger the activation of these spores. Animals that graze on pastures are particularly susceptible to contracting the disease, often succumbing to it without displaying any symptoms.
The BAH emphasizes the importance of having a veterinarian examine animals that die suddenly or are found dead on pastures. Anthrax spores can remain viable in the soil for extended periods, posing a long-term risk to other animals. Therefore, prompt investigation and appropriate action are necessary to safeguard livestock.
While the risk to humans is generally low, individuals who have come into contact with animals suspected of having anthrax should seek guidance from their medical providers. Anthrax primarily spreads through direct contact with infected animals or their products, but it does not pose a significant threat to public health.
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The BAH did not provide specific details regarding the breeds of livestock affected by anthrax in this recent incident.
