Home Australia Anthrax outbreak in Australia: Five cows die with fears for the rest of the herd

Anthrax outbreak in Australia: Five cows die with fears for the rest of the herd

by Elijah
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Anthrax outbreak is believed to have killed several cows in regional Victoria (file image)

An anthrax outbreak is believed to have killed several cows in regional Victoria.

A beef farm in Shepparton has been quarantined after five cattle died.

The rest of the herd has been vaccinated.

Anthrax outbreak is believed to have killed several cows in regional Victoria (file image)

Anthrax is caused by bacteria found in soil. In very rare cases it can be transmitted to humans.

Symptoms in animals include fever, blood from the nose, mouth or anus, lack of appetite and sudden death.

Victoria’s chief veterinary officer, Dr Graeme Cooke, said: “Due to early reports from affected farmers and vets, swift action could be taken to reduce the likelihood of the detection affecting more livestock.

“Quarantine controls will not affect the movement of local people, vehicles or livestock.”

Agriculture Victoria said there was no risk to the public.

A beef farm in Shepparton has been quarantined after five cattle died (file image)

A beef farm in Shepparton has been quarantined after five cattle died (file image)

WHAT IS ANTHRAX?

Anthrax is the name of the disease caused by the spores of the bacteria Bacillus anthracis and affects about 2,000 people a year, mainly in Africa.

The disease is more common in animals.

Anthrax can be contracted by touching, inhaling or swallowing the spores, which can remain dormant in water and soil for years.

Once inside the body, they become activated and begin to produce toxins that cause disease.

Symptoms range from blisters to difficulty breathing or diarrhea, depending on how it enters the body.

The vast majority of cases are caused by skin contact. This is the least deadly form of the disease: about 75 percent of patients survive even without treatment.

If inhaled, the spores are much more deadly: Only 20 percent of people survive, even if they receive medical help.

Fountain: US Centers for Disease Control

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