Language

Google Translate Disclaimer

A number of pages on the Government of Saskatchewan's website have been professionally translated in French. These translations are identified by a yellow box in the right or left rail that resembles the link below. The home page for French-language content on this site can be found at:

Renseignements en Français

Where an official translation is not available, Google™ Translate can be used. Google™ Translate is a free online language translation service that can translate text and web pages into different languages. Translations are made available to increase access to Government of Saskatchewan content for populations whose first language is not English.

Software-based translations do not approach the fluency of a native speaker or possess the skill of a professional translator. The translation should not be considered exact, and may include incorrect or offensive language. The Government of Saskatchewan does not warrant the accuracy, reliability or timeliness of any information translated by this system. Some files or items cannot be translated, including graphs, photos and other file formats such as portable document formats (PDFs).

Any person or entities that rely on information obtained from the system does so at his or her own risk. Government of Saskatchewan is not responsible for any damage or issues that may possibly result from using translated website content. If you have any questions about Google™ Translate, please visit: Google™ Translate FAQs.

Producers Reminded to Vaccinate After Anthrax Confirmed in Cattle

Released on July 29, 2015

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is reminding producers to vaccinate their livestock following confirmation that anthrax has been found in cattle in the RM of Harris.  Anthrax was confirmed by laboratory results on July 28, 2015, as the cause of death in one cow and is the suspected cause of death of two other cattle on the same farm.  This is the second report of anthrax in Saskatchewan this year.  Alberta reported a case in cattle in the Fort Vermillion area this week.

Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, which can survive in spore form for decades in soil.  Changes in soil moisture can lead to a build-up of the spores on pastures.  Exposure to anthrax increases in drier years when sloughs and potholes dry up and become accessible.  Spores can also surface during excavation or when there is excessive run-off.

Producers can protect their animals by vaccinating them each year.  Ruminants like bison, cattle, sheep and goats are highly susceptible and are often infected by consuming forage contaminated with spores.  Horses can also be infected while swine, birds and carnivores are more resistant to infection.  Producers in regions that have experienced previous outbreaks of anthrax are strongly encouraged to vaccinate their animals.

Affected animals are usually found dead without any signs of illness.  The carcasses of any animal suspected of having anthrax should not be moved or disturbed.  To prevent spreading of spores, carcasses should be protected from farm dogs and cats as well as scavengers such as coyotes or ravens.

Anyone who suspects anthrax should immediately contact their local veterinarian.  Testing is required and positive results must be reported to the provincial Chief Veterinary Officer.

Although animal cases pose minimal risk to humans, producers are advised to use caution when dealing with a suspected case of anthrax.  In cases where people believe they have been exposed to an infected animal, they should contact their local health authority or physician for advice.

More information on the Ministry of Agriculture’s anthrax response plan can be found at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/anthraxresponse.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Sarah Hein
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5389
Email: sarah.hein@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-9102

We need your feedback to improve saskatchewan.ca. Help us improve