Central ND News

North Dakota’s first case of anthrax in livestock this year has been confirmed in a beef cattle herd in Stark County, according to the North Dakota State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab. The announcement comes as a reminder for livestock producers across the state to remain vigilant against the disease, particularly in regions with a history of previous outbreaks.

“This is the first case we have had in Stark County but have had cases in nearby counties in the past,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Ethan Andress. “Producers in past known affected areas and counties should consult with their veterinarians to review their risk factors and vaccination needs. If producers have unusual losses on pasture, they should reach out to their local veterinarian as they are experienced and trained for this type of response.” Dr. Andress also noted that his office will coordinate with local and state resources to help producers manage such disease situations.

Anthrax vaccines are available for livestock, but immunity takes more than a week to develop after vaccination. Annual booster shots are necessary for continued protection. Producers are advised to monitor herds closely for unexplained deaths and work with veterinarians to collect samples for diagnostic testing.

“Anthrax has been most frequently reported in northeast, southeast and south-central North Dakota, but it has been found in almost every part of the state,” said Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring. “A few anthrax cases are reported in North Dakota almost every year. The animals impacted included cattle, bison, horses, sheep, llamas and farmed deer and elk.”

Last year saw one reported case of anthrax in Adams County; however, 2023 recorded 25 cases across Grant, Adams, and Hettinger Counties. The largest outbreak occurred in 2005 when over 500 confirmed deaths were attributed to anthrax primarily within the Red River Valley and Sheyenne River Valley areas—total losses that year were estimated at more than 1,000 head.

Further information about anthrax can be found on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture website (https://www.ndda.nd.gov/diseases/anthrax).

Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis bacteria. Its spores can remain dormant underground for decades before becoming active under certain conditions such as heavy rainfall or drought. Livestock typically contract the disease by grazing or consuming water or forage contaminated with these spores.