Anthrax

What is anthrax?

Anthrax is a bacterial disease caused by Bacillus anthracis.

Herbivores are the most susceptible animals to infection which causes septicemia and sudden death.

Anthrax organisms, shed from dead animals, can convert into highly resistant spores which can survive in the environment for many years. Carnivores and man can be infected by contact with carcasses or products of infected animals such as wool, hair and hides.

VLA's work on anthrax includes:

  • providing surveillance services,
  • providing biological products which may be used in times of disease outbreak.