ELK MOUNTAIN, Wyo. — A serious anthrax outbreak has been reported in Wyoming, affecting both livestock and wildlife in the state, marking the first such occurrence among wildlife since 1956 and among cattle since the 1970s. Wyoming officials and health experts are now tackling the rare but serious bacterial infection which is capable of affecting both animals and humans.
The presence of anthrax was first identified this week in a moose carcass in Carbon County, documented by the Wyoming Game and Fish Department as the initial case in wildlife in nearly 70 years. Additionally, several cattle deaths near Elk Mountain have been linked to the infection, as confirmed by the Wyoming Livestock Board. The board reported that approximately 50 to 60 cattle deaths are attributed to the outbreak.
Dr. Hallie Hasel, state veterinarian, highlighted the critical situation, noting the urgency in containing the disease to prevent further loss and ensure public health safety. “With anthrax, swift response is crucial. We’re acting quickly to prevent more cases, both known and potential, from emerging,” Hasel said.
Anthrax is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which forms resilient spores that can remain dormant in the soil for years, potentially activated during conditions of drought followed by heavy rain. The spores can infect animals through ingestion or inhalation when they come into contact with contaminated soil, plants, or water.
The disease presents severe health risks to affected livestock, which may show symptoms like sudden death, staggering, severe breathing difficulties, and bloody discharges. Despite being less common in humans, the disease poses serious risks, prompting health officials to caution the public against contacting dead animals and to seek immediate medical assistance if exposed.
An effective vaccination against anthrax is available and is considered crucial in preventing the disease’s spread among livestock populations. The Wyoming Livestock Board is urgently coordinating with cattle producers and veterinarians across the state to administer these vaccines and implement other preventive measures.
The ongoing investigation aims not only to control the current outbreak but also to understand the spore’s resurgence after significant dormant periods. Researchers believe that studying these patterns can offer insights into how climatic changes are influencing the recurrence of dormant diseases like anthrax.
Public health officials emphasize the importance of community cooperation during such outbreaks. Residents are urged to report any suspicious wildlife or livestock deaths to local authorities as a precautionary measure to control the disease’s spread.
As Wyoming confronts this public health issue, cooperation between state veterinarians, wildlife officials, livestock producers, and the community will be essential in overcoming the current anthrax outbreak and preventing future occurrences.