There have been two more confirmed cases of anthrax on two additional ranches in Logan County, according to the Colorado Department of Agriculture.
The new cases are located on properties adjacent to the original case announced on Aug. 8.
The new cases are a not a surprise to officials.
“Anthrax is from spores in the soil, which doesn’t stop at property lines, so while we hoped there wouldn’t be more cases, they aren’t unexpected,” said Dr. Keith Roehr, a Colorado veterinarian. “Neighboring herds have been vaccinated and affected herds are being treated.”
The Colorado Department of Agriculture had been investigating 50 head of cattle found dead after one tested positive for anthrax in Logan County.
“It is unknown, but highly probable the 50 died of anthrax,” Roehr said.
These are the first anthrax cases in Colorado in 31 years, he said.
All of the dead cattle have been incinerated, Roehr said.
It is unlikely there was any human exposure to the anthrax, officials said.
“They would had to have been exposed by direct contact for there to be a threat,” Roehr said. “No one from the properties has shown any clinical signs of anthrax.”
Anthrax infection can be treated with antibiotics, especially if caught in the early stages.
Ryan Parker: 303-954-2409, rparker@denverpost.com or
