In a concerning development for the agricultural community, North Dakota has been hit by a severe outbreak of cattle anthrax, with 25 confirmed cases reported this year. This marks the highest number of cases the state has witnessed in nearly two decades, since the significant outbreak in 2005. The situation has escalated to a crisis level, affecting not only cattle but also horses, bison, and sheep, with over 300 livestock deaths attributed to the disease.
Anthrax, caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is known for its durability, as it can produce spores that survive in soil for many years. These spores have been identified in several areas where cattle graze, leading to the current spike in infections. The bacteria’s resilience poses a continuous threat to livestock and the livelihoods of farmers and ranchers.
There are now 16 premises affected by #anthrax in southwest North Dakota; 15 laboratory-confirmed cases and one probable case based on clinical signs. One confirmed case is in eastern Hettinger County with the remaining cases in Grant County. https://t.co/NdXHHfiRMl pic.twitter.com/JXV1CPYPBT
— NDSU Extension (@NDSUExtension) August 12, 2023
The recent case confirmed in southwest North Dakota’s Grant County has brought the issue to the forefront, with all reported cases this year originating from Grant County and its neighbors, Hettinger and Adams counties. The state’s veterinarian, Dr. Ethan Andress, has noted approximately 170 cattle deaths, underscoring the severity of the outbreak.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has pointed out the unusual nature of an anthrax case appearing so late in the year. However, he attributes this anomaly to the unseasonably mild weather, which has allowed cattle to continue grazing on pastures where the anthrax bacteria thrive. This extended exposure has undoubtedly contributed to the uptick in cases.
In North Dakota, anthrax infections in cattle on rise https://t.co/cPI0pxueX4 via @upi
Isn't that convenient? They can kill a lot of people with anthrax running loose. BTW, anthrax is the name for weaponized cowpox, so unless someone is confused, it shouldn't occur in nature.— House of Jubal (@JubalHarshaw13) December 2, 2023
While natural outbreaks of anthrax among livestock generally pose a low risk to human health, provided there is no direct contact with infected carcasses, the potential for a weaponized version of the disease remains a grave concern. The memory of the 2001 anthrax attacks post-9/11, which resulted in five deaths and 17 illnesses, still looms large in the public consciousness, highlighting the need for vigilance and preparedness against such threats.
In response to the crisis, there have been proactive measures taken within the pharmaceutical industry. Emergent BioSolutions recently announced that the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) has exercised an option to procure additional doses of their newly approved anthrax vaccine, Cyfendus (AV7909). This move signifies the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health against biological threats.
The outbreak has placed a significant financial burden on the affected ranchers and farmers, who are already navigating the challenges of a volatile agricultural economy. The loss of hundreds of livestock translates into substantial economic damage, emphasizing the need for effective management strategies and support systems to mitigate the impact of such outbreaks.
As the state grapples with this crisis, it is imperative for the agricultural community to remain vigilant and for state officials to continue monitoring the situation closely. Preventative measures, including vaccination programs and careful handling of potentially infected animals, are crucial in controlling the spread of the disease.
The North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s confirmation of these anthrax cases serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present risks in farming and ranching. It underscores the importance of ongoing research, surveillance, and collaboration between government agencies, healthcare providers, and the agricultural sector to protect both animal and human health from such infectious diseases.
