By NewsDesk @bactiman63

The number of animal anthrax cases has risen to nine in the state of Texas, according to animal health officials.

In a span of about two weeks, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) has received new confirmations of anthrax in a white-tailed deer on a Kinney County premise on August 30, a white-tailed deer on a Maverick County premise on September 2, and a kudu on a Real County premise on September 9.

All premises have been placed under quarantine and will not be released until TAHC requirements are met.

The first anthrax case of the year was confirmed in a Val Verde County captive white-tailed deer on July 11, 2021. Since that time, anthrax was confirmed in a Hardeman County cow on August 6, two additional premises in Hardeman County on August 19, an Armstrong County horse on August 23, and an additional Armstrong County premise on August 25.

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“TAHC personnel are closely monitoring the anthrax cases in Texas,” said Dr. Andy Schwartz, TAHC State Veterinarian and Executive Director. “Anthrax is often seen in the area of the state where our most recent confirmations have been found. We ask producers to remain vigilant and consult with their local veterinary practitioner if they suspect their animals are exposed to anthrax or are interested in vaccinating their livestock.”

There is an effective anthrax vaccine available for use in susceptible livestock (includes but is not limited to, swine, equine, sheep, goats, cattle, etc.). The TAHC encourages owners of livestock in the triangular area, bound by the towns of Uvalde, Ozona and Eagle Pass, as well as other counties afflicted this year, including Armstrong, Hardeman and Real, to consult with a local veterinary practitioner and vaccinate livestock. Producers may order anthrax vaccines directly from the manufacturer.

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Image/TAHC