Anthrax

Anthrax has been reported in three farm locations in Sun Country Health Region in August, 2010. Deaths from the naturally-occurring anthrax have been reported in bison, cattle and horses. 

Cases of naturally-occurring anthrax in animals are reported every year in Canada including sporadic cases in Saskatchewan. These animal cases pose minimal risk to the public.

Anthrax spores can survive in the environment for long periods. Periods of flooding can move spores up to the soil surface, and drying of wet areas will expose spores to grazing livestock. When animals graze on soil where spores are present, they can ingest the bacteria directly from the soil or from plants.

For more information about anthrax, please check out the web sites below or call the Public Health Inspector Supervisor at 842-8623:

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA):
 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/disemala/anthchar/anthchare.shtml
 http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/disemala/anthchar/situatione.shtml

Saskatchewan Ministry of Health:
 http://www.health.gov.sk.ca/anthrax

Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture – Frequently Asked Questions:
 http://www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca/Anthrax_FAQs