A case of anthrax in Mississippi livestock has been detected in Coahoma County near Clarksdale. The State Veterinarian quarantined the premises based on the report of the disease by the local veterinarian. Samples from one of the two affected animals were submitted to the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory which confirmed the diagnosis. The carcasses have been cremated, and the rest of the cattle have been vaccinated by the attending veterinarian as required by law.

Anthrax is a naturally occurring disease caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis found in many parts of the world. In Mississippi the disease is occasionally found in Western Delta counties when weather conditions are favorable. Typically this occurs when there is spring flooding followed by hot, dry weather, although as demonstrated by this case, it can occur anytime. The last documented cases in Mississippi were in 1990 and 1991.

• Grazing animals such as wildlife and livestock (cattle, horses, sheep, goats) are the animals most affected by anthrax.
• Although humans, domestic animals, and wild swine are more resistant to the disease, they should avoid contact with infected animals.
• Symptoms of anthrax in livestock can be non-specific, including high fever or convulsions, or in many cases acute death is the first sign noticed by a producer.
• Anthrax is a reportable disease.

> Immediately report suspect cases to the Mississippi Board of Animal Health (MBAH).
> State law requires quarantine and vaccination of affected herds, as well as proper carcass disposal.
> The MBAH reporting hotline number is (888) 646-8731. The following are general biosecurity tips that should be followed if there is an anthrax-affected animal or carcass:

• Avoid moving the carcass unless necessary for disposal. Carcasses should be cremated. If this is not possible, they must be buried at least 6 feet deep and covered with lime.
• Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling carcasses or livestock thought to be infected with anthrax. See your doctor if you develop any unusuallooking sores on your hands, arms or other exposed skin. Infection requires treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a physician.
• Practice good sanitation. Wash your hands after handling animals (even if you wear gloves.) Disinfect equipment used on the animals or carcasses.
• Keep pets and children away from carcasses or bones of dead animals. Move healthy animals away from a pasture where animals have died from the disease.
• Vaccinate livestock if cases occur in the surrounding areas. Vaccinated animals must be withheld from slaughter for two months.
• Restrict the movement of livestock onto or from an affected premise until animals can develop immunity through vaccination (about 14 days).

For more information regarding anthrax, visit www.mbah.state.ms.us or call (888) 646-8731.