Dr.iCow’s Diary
Date: 28.01.2020
Dear Dr.iCow,
Anthrax signs in livestock. How can a farmer notice?
From: Mr. Lang’at, County: Bomet, Kenya.
Discussion:
A neighbour’s sheep had died suddenly and it was suspected it died of anthrax though farmers were not sure whether sheep can be infected by the disease.
Dear Mr. Langat,
Anthrax is a highly infectious contagious and is often a fatal disease of animals and is commonly seen in cattle, sheep, goats, wild animals, and can be transmitted to humans by contact with infected animals or their products. In case of sudden death in livestock, anthrax disease is the first suspected cause. Such a case should be reported immediately to the area veterinarian or area administration for immediate action. Farmers should be vigilant for anthrax and prompt reporting of suspected cases help in a great way to reduce contamination of affected farm.
Clinical signs for anthrax infection in an animal are; sudden death 2 to 3 hours of being apparently normal, animals may show trembling, high body temperature, difficult breathing, collapse and convulsions before death, blood may not clot after death resulting in some bloody discharge from mouth, nose anus and other body openings. Please do not open a carcass of a dead animal due to sudden death.
Anthrax infection is through ingestion of contaminated pastures, soils or fodder. Other animals in the pastures where sudden death has occurred should be removed immediately. Please call a vet immediately and follow the vet’s instructions regarding correct disposal of carcass, correct disinfection, decontamination and disposal of contaminated materials. The recommended method of disposal is by incineration.
A carcass of livestock animal from sudden death should not be moved. It should be tested for anthrax by the veterinarian or the county veterinary officers. Movement of animals and animals’ products from a suspected farm is suspended as anthrax testing is carried out.
Where anthrax is confirmed after veterinary examination and laboratory testing of the samples, the affected property and area is quarantined, exposed livestock are vaccinated, carcasses are disposed preferably by burning and contaminated site are disinfected.
Thank you.
From your friend and advisor,
Dr.iCow