The program is sponsored by the Kendall County Extension Office. Private Pesticide Applicators Licensing School - offered Tuesday, August 7, 2001. Representatives of the Texas Department of Agriculture will be on hand to administer the test starting at 1 p.m., immediately after lunch. If interested in attending, you must register with the Travis County Extension Office by Friday, August 3 rd . Anthrax Reported in Southwest Texas Livestock health officials are urging producers in Southwest Texas to consult their private veterinary practitioners about vaccinating livestock against anthrax after hundreds of deer and several horses and cattle died from the disease early in July.
Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming bacteria.
When livestock graze in an affected pasture, they can ingest the spores that are on the grass or ground. Ranches with confirmed cases are quarantined until at least 10 days after all livestock is vaccinated, and after proper disposal of all carcasses. To prevent contaminating the ground with anthrax spores which can remain dormant for years, TAHC regulations require that carcasses of animals that may have died from anthrax be thoroughly burned. The animal's bedding, manure and the surrounding soil also should be burned. Dr. Baca also advised producers to wear long sleeves and gloves when handling the carcases or when working or vaccinating livestock, to avoid contaminating any sores or scratches on arms or hands.