What We’re Reading | Drought conditions increase risk of anthrax

Producers are urged to take precautions this summer because of how dry it has been; vaccinations are recommended

By Heather Smith Thomas, published in Western Producer

Anthrax is one of the oldest killers of humans and livestock, mentioned in some of the earliest recorded history.

It has been called splenic fever, charbon, milztrand and woolsorter’s disease and is caused by a bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, which occurs sporadically in the United States and Canada.

The disease is seen worldwide, and associated with sudden death of cattle and sheep, though it can infect all warm-blooded animals.

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‘What We’re Reading’ is a quick look at some of the issues and insights Alberta Beef Producers’ content creators and editors are reading to stay up-to-date, to broaden perspectives, and to explore issues relevant to the agriculture industry.

Feature Photo: Debra Murphy/ABP