Anthrax
Bacillus anthracis

Anthrax was confirmed to have killed 23 head of cows and calves on a Sheridan county Nebraska ranch in June 1994.  This case was the first confirmed anthrax outbreak in Nebraska since 1979, according to most reports. Spores are known to survive for extremely long periods of time in the soil.  The State Veterinarian’s office should be notified and will supervise the disposal of carcasses from any animals which may have died from anthrax.  This is a potential human pathogen that can be fatal, so appropriate measures must be taken to protect all personnel.  Contact a physician for the best preventative measures for all exposed or potentially exposed persons.