| Information sheets | | | Elsenburg infopaks | | | Animals, diseases: 18 |
Anthrax
Afrikaans | Xhosa
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On the banks of the Orange River one of the few regions in the country
is found where Anthrax is still endemic. The alkaline deposits and absence of organic activity in the hot dry sand create favourable conditions for
Bacillus anthracis which, through the formation of spores, is able to survive for centuries.
Acute mortality is a common feature of this disease. Dead animals are found, often with dark excretions of blood at the nose and anus. In the rare cases where sick animals are seen, they present with a high fewer, dark mucous membranes and complete listlessness before dying. |
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Anthrax is a disease which can be spread to humans through the flaying or handling of hides from animals that have died. |
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In humans toxaemia with ulcers at wounds and lymph glands develops, which necessitates medical treatment. The condition can be controlled with the early administration of antibiotics. |
Where there is any suspicion that an animal has died of Anthrax, the carcass must not be opened, since the millions of spores that form when the organism gets in contact with oxygen can survive for centuries. A blood smear must be made by cutting off the edge of the ear and expressing a drop of blood on a slide. This must be scrutinised by a veterinarian for signs of the characteristic Bacilli.
Anthrax is a notifiable disease, and the nearest office of a state veterinarian must be informed of any suspected cases. Occurrences are controlled by means of vaccination and quarantine. The disease can be prevented through annual vaccination with the Anthrax vaccine. Vaccination of cattle is compulsory, while in high-risk areas small stock are also vaccinated. Where boer goats are vaccinated, the vaccine must only be administered in the groin.
MP van Aardt
ELSENBURG / SPRINGBOK Veterinary Services
