Anthrax Outbreaks in Canada and Minnesota

August 23, 2006 — 
  [ES]

The largest outbreak of anthrax ever recorded in Saskatchewan, Canada has killed at least 746 farm animals since it began in July 2006. A similar outbreak in Minnesota, first recognized in mid-June 2006, has resulted in 83 animal deaths (cattle, bison and horses) on 25 premises making this the second largest outbreak in state history.

The Minnesota outbreak is currently confined to 5 counties in the northwestern part of the state. The Canadian outbreak involves the neighboring provinces of Saskatchewan and Manitoba (located on Minnesota's northern border) and has reportedly affected cattle, horses, bison, sheep, goats, white-tailed deer and elk. In addition, 3 swine have died in the Rural Municipality of Kinistino, Saskatchewan.

Sources:
Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Anthrax--Latest Information

Minnesota Board of Animal Health, Anthrax update