Rare case of anthrax in Wyoming leaves dozens of cattle dead

Anthrax has been confirmed in multiple beef herds in Carbon County, Wyoming, resulting in the deaths of 50 to 60 cattle. This marks the first confirmed case of anthrax in Wyoming cattle since the 1970s. The diagnosis was confirmed by the Wyoming State Veterinary Laboratory on August 31, following efforts by both WSVL and private veterinarians.

In addition to cattle, a case of anthrax in wildlife has been confirmed. On September 3, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, working with WSVL, identified anthrax in a dead moose in Carbon County. This is the first documented anthrax case in Wyoming wildlife since 1956, when the disease was detected in Sublette County.

Anthrax is a bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacterium that can survive in soil for years. It often emerges after droughts followed by heavy rain, when animals may ingest or breathe in spores from contaminated soil, water, or plants. Infected animals show symptoms such as sudden death, weakness, difficulty breathing, fever, and bloody diarrhea.

More details on exactly how many herds were affected or the ranches involved were not released to the public. The Wyoming State Veterinary Board released a fact sheet about anthrax to help answer questions. That sheet can be found here.

State veterinarian Dr. Hallie Hasel emphasized the importance of quick action, stating that state agencies and private veterinarians are working to protect both animal and human health. The Wyoming Livestock Board is collaborating with local producers and veterinarians to contain the outbreak, recommending carcass disposal and vaccination. The anthrax vaccine is approved for multiple livestock species and is considered highly effective in preventing further spread.

The situation remains under close watch as officials work to limit further outbreaks and human exposure to this zoonotic disease. The Wyoming Game and Fish Department warns hunters and the public to not approach or touch dead carcasses in the wild, and not to harvest any animal that appears unwell.

»Related: CDC: Texas rancher contracts anthrax after butchering ewe