Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) officials confirmed on Sept. 16 the discovery of anthrax in a white-tailed deer in Kinney County 12 miles east of Bracketville. The premises has been quarantined and TAHC rules require proper disposal of affected carcasses and vaccination of livestock on the premises.
Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a naturally occurring organism with worldwide distribution. Anthrax periodically emerges in southwestern Texas. A vaccine is available for use in susceptible livestock in high risk areas.
“The TAHC will continue to closely monitor the premises,” said Dr. T.R. Lansford, TAHC assistant executive director for animal health programs. “Producers are encouraged to consult their veterinary practitioner or local TAHC office if they have questions about the disease in livestock and a medical professional if they have concerns about personal anthrax exposure.”
Common signs of anthrax in livestock are acute fever, followed by rapid death with bleeding from body openings. Carcasses may also appear bloated and decompose quickly. Livestock displaying symptoms consistent with anthrax should be reported to a private veterinary practitioner or a TAHC official. If affected livestock or carcasses must be handled, producers are encouraged to follow basic sanitation precautions such as wearing protective gloves, long sleeve shirts and washing thoroughly afterward to prevent accidental spread of the bacteria to people.
For more information regarding Anthrax, contact your local TAHC region office or call 1-800-550-8242.
To learn more about Anthrax, visit the TAHC’s brochure at http://www.tahc.texas.gov/news/brochures/TAHCBrochure_Anthrax.pdf
Source: Texas Animal Health Commission