media
release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 8, 2012
Contact: Christi
Lightcap, (303) 239-4190, Christi.lightcap@ag.state.co.us
Colorado Department of
Agriculture Investigates Anthrax Case
LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Colorado
Department of Agriculture is currently investigating an anthrax case in Logan
County; one deceased cow is confirmed to have been infected with the disease, approximately
50 dead cattle are suspected to have been exposed. One location has tested
positive and adjacent ranchers are being notified. No cattle left the location prior to the
quarantine. No cattle entered the food
chain.
“The risk is minimal outside the affected
ranch. We believe, at this point, that
anthrax is confined to that specific premises,” said State Veterinarian, Dr.
Keith Roehr. “Colorado has not had an
anthrax case in 31 years but anthrax outbreaks are not uncommon in the Western
United States. We are dedicated to
providing the necessary response to ensure that the investigation works quickly
to limit the spread of this disease.”
The premises has been
quarantined and people, cattle, and equipment that may have come into contact
with anthrax are being monitored during this investigation.
"Our focus is on
the potential for human exposure," said Dr. Tony Cappello, district public
health administrator for the Northeast Colorado Health Department. "We are currently conducting our own
public health investigation and contacting individuals that have been involved
with the livestock. Anthrax is not
spread from person to person and exposure is limited only to those who had
contact with the affected cattle or the immediate area."
Anthrax can develop
naturally in soil; the spores can become active in association with periods of
marked climatic or ecologic change such as heavy rainfall, flooding or drought
which can then expose the anthrax spores to grazing livestock. Outbreaks of anthrax are commonly associated
with neutral or alkaline soils. In these
areas the spores apparently revert to the vegetative form and multiply to
infectious levels so that cattle, horses, mules, sheep and goats may readily
become infected when grazing such areas.
Anthrax is a serious
disease because it can cause the rapid loss of a large number of animals in a
very short time. Often, animals are
found dead with no illness detected. Appropriate
carcass disposal is being used to prevent further soil contamination.
Producers should consult
their veterinarians and vaccinate their livestock, if deemed appropriate.
Humans or animals can
become infected by coming in contact with infected animals, soil or water. Anthrax infection can be treated with
antibiotics, especially if caught in the early stages.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is a serious
disease caused by Bacillus anthracis,
a bacterium that forms spores. There are three forms of anthrax: cutaneous,
inhalation, and gastrointestinal.
Is it contagious? Who is susceptible?
Yes, it is contagious to
all mammals, including humans. Animals
most susceptible include cattle, sheep, horses and goats. Humans or animals can become infected by
coming in contact with infected animals, soil or water. If humans become affected 90-95% of the
infections are the cutaneous form.
How is it transmitted?
Anthrax is transmitted
through direct contact with the bacteria or by ingesting or breathing in the
spores.
How is it treated?
Anthrax can be treated
with antibiotics, especially if caught in the early stages. There is a vaccine
for humans and livestock. People on the
quarantined location and adjacent ranches have been contacted.
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