Anthrax confirmed in 2 bison deaths northwest of North Battleford

Anthrax has killed two bison and is suspect to have caused the deaths of seven other bison northwest of North Battleford.

Saskatchewan Agriculture is out with a warning for producers to be on the lookout after anthrax was confirmed by laboratory results on Wednesday.

Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis which can survive in the soil for decades. The spores can build up on pastures due to changes in soil moisture, and can concentrate in sloughs and potholes.

The province says the risk of animal exposure to anthrax increases in drier years.

Anthrax can be prevented by vaccination.

The carcasses of any animal that may have died of anthrax should not be moved, and should be protected from scavengers. Cases have to be confirmed by a laboratory diagnosis.

More information on the province’s anthrax-response plan can be found online.

reginanews@rawlco.com
Follow on Twitter: @CJMENews