An outbreak of anthrax has been confirmed in the Northern Cape after several eland carcasses tested positive for Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium that causes the disease.
By Amelia Genis, senior journalist at African Farming and Landbouweekblad
Jan Palm, chairperson of TLU SA Northern Cape, has warned livestock farmers, game farmers and land users on the Ghaap Plateau near Douglas to ensure that their animals are vaccinated against anthrax and that biosecurity measures are strictly applied.
Anthrax is a highly contagious bacterial disease that can affect both animals and humans. The bacterium, Bacillus anthracis, occurs naturally in the soil, where its spores can remain viable for many years.
TLU SA explains in a press release that animals become infected when they eat contaminated soil, water or plants. People can contract the disease through contact with infected animals or carcasses, by eating or handling contaminated meat or by inhaling contaminated dust particles.
The disease causes rapid death in animals, often without visible signs, although blood flowing from the nose, mouth or anus is an important warning sign.
Also read: Farmers warned to be vigilant after anthrax outbreak in Kruger
Vaccination Remains the Best Protection
The press release adds that timely vaccination is the most effective protection against anthrax. The Northern Cape agriculture department has confirmed that sufficient vaccine is available in Douglas and Kimberley.
Farmers are advised to carry out annual vaccinations, especially in areas where anthrax has previously occurred. Vaccination should be done before the rainy season, as bacterial spores are brought to the surface by rainwater where animals graze.
If an animal is suspected of having died of anthrax, the carcass should not be opened. Protective clothing, gloves and masks should be worn if it is necessary to handle carcasses.
The area where the carcass is lying should be isolated, and the carcass should be buried at least 1,8 metres deep and covered with quicklime to prevent further spread of spores. Carcasses should not be transported.
The Ghaap Plateau and surrounding areas, where game and livestock often graze together, are particularly vulnerable to the spread of the disease, says TLU SA. Soil conditions, especially in low-lying areas where water stagnates, can preserve and reactivate bacterial spores.
Also read: Anthrax alert – livestock owners urged to vaccinate
