State animal health officials have confirmed recent cases of anthrax and brucellosis in Wyoming cattle herds, marking the first case of anthrax in cows in the Cowboy State since the 1970s.

The state veterinary laboratory and private veterinarians confirmed the anthrax diagnosis Aug. 31 among several herds in Carbon County, northwest of Laramie, the Wyoming Livestock Board reported. Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a naturally occurring organism with worldwide distribution.

The spore-forming bacteria may survive in the soil for years or decades, resulting in sporadic outbreaks which usually occur after periods of drought followed by heavy rain. Animals may become infected when they breathe or ingest the spores.

The disease can kill livestock or cause weakness, staggering, difficulty breathing, fever and bloody diarrhea, cautions the livestock board.

“Protecting animal and human health is critical upon diagnosis of a zoonotic disease,” state veterinarian Hallie Hasel said. “The Wyoming Livestock Board will continue working with producers and private veterinarians to reduce further spread and limit human exposure through recommendations for carcass disposal and vaccination.

“Anthrax vaccine is approved for multiple livestock species and highly effective,” she said.

Brucellosis

The brucellosis was confirmed by the Wyoming lab in a cattle herd in Park County, which includes Cody and part of Yellowstone National Park. The affected herd was quarantined and will undergo serial testing.

Brucellosis in cattle is caused almost exclusively by Brucella abortus. Infection spreads quickly and causes many abortions in a herd of unvaccinated cattle, according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.

Identification of brucellosis-positive cattle is not uncommon within parts of Wyoming where a “brucellosis reservoir” in wildlife occasionally spills over into cows, the livestock board explains. Cattle in those areas must be tested prior to leaving, and within 30 days before a change of ownership.

Hasel says she understands the difficult situation faced by the owners of infected herds.

“We sincerely appreciate the cooperation and the extra effort from both the producer and their veterinarian,” she said. “The tireless attention to brucellosis mitigation and testing is vital to maintaining Wyoming’s brucellosis-free state status, which in turn ensures profitable Wyoming cattle exports.”

State and USDA officials will hold the following informational meetings on brucellosis:

Producers, veterinarians, extension specialists, meat processors and others are encouraged to attend the meetings, which will also be streamed online.

For information, contact the livestock board at 307-777-7515 or [email protected], or call Hasel at 307-840-1389.