According to South Dakota State Veterinarian, Mendel Miller, DVM, anthrax has been confirmed in a South Dakota beef herd currently located in Meade County. This is the first confirmed case of anthrax in 2026.
The cow/calf herd initially began experiencing deaths while pastured in Butte County, where exposure is believed to have occurred. The cattle were later moved to Meade County where they continued to experience symptoms.
The Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at South Dakota State University confirmed the disease from samples submitted by the herd veterinarian. In response, the Animal Industry Board (AIB) has quarantined the affected herd, notified the neighboring herd owners, and will quarantine any additional herds impacted.
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“Veterinary oversight is important when faced with disease concerns, and the Animal Industry Board will continue to work with ranchers and private veterinarians to quickly respond to anthrax,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Miller. “Anthrax vaccine has proven effective and allows ranchers to take steps to protect their herd.”
The adult cattle in the herd have been vaccinated in response to the diagnosis.
Anthrax is a devastating disease for livestock which can cause rapid loss of animals in a short amount of time. Anthrax spores survive indefinitely in soil and significant weather events, such as drought, floods, and high winds, can cause exposure leading to infection.