In Victoria, most districts have experienced cases, and while outbreaks are more common during warmer months, sudden livestock deaths can occur at any time of year.
Farmers and high-risk property owners are advised to vaccinate against anthrax annually.
Once an animal dies from anthrax, the disease spores can remain dormant in the soil for decades.
For this reason, anthrax should always be considered where livestock die suddenly, particularly if blood is visible around the nose, mouth or anus.
Advances in diagnostic technology have significantly improved how veterinarians respond to suspected cases.
Pen‑side immunochromatographic test kits now provide a fast, safe and reliable way to diagnose or exclude anthrax on site, replacing older methods that relied on microscopy.
These kits allow veterinarians to make informed decisions quickly and reduce unnecessary delays during disease investigations.
All private veterinarians who work with livestock have free access to ICT kits and can undertake sudden livestock death investigations through subsidised programs.
Early and accurate diagnosis is critical to preventing further losses, protecting human health, and ensuring carcases are disposed of safely through incineration and thorough site decontamination.
Anthrax is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can infect people.
Prompt exclusion testing provides peace of mind for producers and veterinarians, while allowing attention to be directed toward identifying other possible causes of death.
Exclusion testing should be carried out within 48 hours of an animal’s death.
Anyone who suspects anthrax is encouraged to immediately contact their local veterinarian, an Agriculture Victoria veterinary or animal health officer, or the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.
The VFF factsheet on anthrax is available here.
The Agriculture Victoria factsheet on anthrax is available here.
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