PIERRE, S.D.(KELO)- South Dakota has its first case of anthrax for the year.
State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson says several cows were found dead in a herd of about 150 in Ziebach County.
The spores are hard to kill and remain active for a long time, but there is a vaccine to help farmers and ranchers avoid problems with anthrax poisoning.
Thompson says this case took her by surprise, because anthrax is normally more of a problem in drought conditions.
This has been a wet year in that area.
State Veterinarian Dr. Beth Thompson says it’s the only case in South Dakota so far this year…but there have been problems in the region.
To be safe, Dr. Thompson says producers should vaccinate their animals.