Anthrax Overview
Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by spore-forming gram-positive bacterium, Bacillus anthracis.
Etiological Agent
Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by spore-forming gram-positive bacterium, Bacillus anthracis.
Species Affected
- Most mammals and ruminants are highly susceptible
- Pigs and Horses are moderately susceptible
- Carnivores are relatively resistant
Clinical Signs
- Sudden death in cattle and sheep
- High fever prior to death
- Blood around nose, mouth, and anus
- Oedema in throat and shoulder (appears 1 week before death)
Preventive Measures
- Test suspicious carcasses before movement
- Proper disposal: deep burying with lime powder
- Disinfection with 4% formalin or 10% caustic soda
- Restrict grazing areas
- Ring vaccination and disease reporting
- Follow strict biosecurity measures
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