The current dry, hot weather creates conditions favourable for the emergence of anthrax events in those areas that have had a history of the disease in the past.
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Central West Local Land Services (LLS) is encouraging landholders to look out for sudden deaths in stock and consider vaccinating against this disease where there is a local history.
Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by bacillus anthracis and appears to be more prevalent in the summer and autumn months.
The bacterium produces highly-resistant spores which can persist in the soil for at least 60 years.
Stock may become infected through ingesting or inhaling the spores. Recent earthworks (ploughing, digging tanks or drains, etc.) or close grazing of pastures can disturb spores and increase the chance of infection.
Anthrax can occur in stock of all ages and classes. It is a notifiable disease under the Stock Diseases Act 1923.
If spores are ingested or inhaled, they quickly multiply inside the animal and may lead to sudden death. Animals dying from anthrax may have a dark bloody discharge coming from body orifices, although this does not happen in all cases.
While the incidence of anthrax is very low, the impacts can be severe according to Central West LLS District Vet Jillian Kelly.
Contact your closest LLS District Veterinarian to find out more.
Further information search ‘DPI anthrax’ or visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
is also online at the Department of Primary Industry’s website. Search ‘DPI anthrax’ or visit www.dpi.nsw.gov.au
