Farmers across the Western Plains are being encouraged to vaccinate their sheep and cattle against anthrax after an outbreak occurred in the state’s Central West earlier this year. 

The disease is as deadly as it is unpredictable, killing stock of any age or class with no warning. 

The Department of Primary Industry’s Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Amanda Walker said annual vaccination should be considered on high-risk properties, as it can lie dormant in the soil up to eighty years. 

“Cases of anthrax in NSW tend to occur in an area which runs through the centre of the state; between Bourke and Moree in the north, to Albury and Deniliquin in the south,” Dr Walker said. 

Said to be part of the 'anthrax belt', anthrax 'spores' or bacteria are partial to the soil amongst river towns.

“High risk properties include properties where anthrax has been detected previously, or close by properties,” said Dr Walker. 

Last February, the outbreak occurred on a property with a prior history of anthrax. 

The disease is particularly difficult for farmers to recognise, with stock often not showing any signs or symptoms before their sudden death. It's common for outbreaks to begin with the sporadic deaths of single animals before building to dramatic losses in a short period of time.  

Farmers are able to apply for use of the vaccine through their Local Land Services District Veterinarian and once authorised, can access the vaccine through a rural supplier or veterinarian. 

“By preventing anthrax from occurring, vaccination breaks the cycle of spore production. If vaccination is continued over time, spores in the environment will die, reducing the risk of anthrax occurring in the future,” Dr Walker said. 

Anthrax is a notifiable disease in NSW. Anyone who suspects anthrax must report it immediately by calling the Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.