Extreme Weather Increases Risk For Anthrax In Livestock In Oklahoma

Oklahoma has higher than normal potential to experience cases of anthrax this summer and livestock producers should be alert to the signs of the disease. State veterinarian Dr. Rod Hall said historically outbreaks have been associated with flooding following dryness or drought.

“We know the conditions are just right that we would expect that we have increased risk this year,” Hall said. “That doesn’t mean that we really believe we are going to have any, we probably won’t, but we just want farmers and ranchers to be a little more aware than they normally are, because we do think there is a better chance that they can get it this year.”

The disease is most common in cattle and sheep, but has been found in dogs, horses, pigs and other animals including humans. Hall said anthrax causes’ sudden death, so it’s very rare someone would see an animal sick with anthrax.   Once animals start showing symptoms, they will die within a few hours. He said animals will often have a high fever before they die, they will quickly bloat and rigor mortis does not set in. He said the hallmark signs of anthrax is a large amount of dark, tarry blood oozes from body openings, such as the nose, eyes, rectum, etc.

If producers find a dead animal and suspect anthrax, they should contact their veterinarian. Dr. Hall said a veterinarian can assess the situation and take a blood sample to be tested by the animal diagnostic laboratory.