Central ND News

North Dakota officials have confirmed a second case of anthrax in Stark County this year, according to the state veterinarian. The North Dakota State University Veterinary Diagnostic Lab identified the disease in a beef cattle herd on Thursday.

“This is the second case we have had in Stark County this year and we 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.” He added that his office will work with local and state resources to support producers facing disease situations.

Anthrax vaccines are available for livestock, but immunity takes over a week to develop after vaccination. Annual booster shots are required for ongoing protection. Producers are encouraged to watch for unexplained animal deaths and coordinate with veterinarians to collect samples for diagnostic testing.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring noted that while anthrax is most often reported in northeast, southeast, and south-central regions of North Dakota, cases have occurred across almost every part of the state. “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,” Goehring said.

In 2024, one case was recorded in Adams County; however, 25 cases were reported the previous year across Grant, Adams, and Hettinger Counties. In 2005, anthrax led to more than 500 confirmed livestock deaths primarily in the Red River Valley and Sheyenne River Valley regions. Total losses that year were estimated at over 1,000 head.

An informational factsheet about anthrax can be found on the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s website at www.ndda.nd.gov/diseases/anthrax.

Anthrax results from infection by Bacillus anthracis bacteria. Its spores can remain dormant underground for decades before becoming active under conditions like heavy rain or drought. Animals typically contract the disease by grazing or consuming water or forage contaminated with these spores.