NORTH BATTLEFORD, Sask. – The Saskatchewan government is warning the provincial agriculture industry to beware the presence of anthrax in farm animals. A July 9 press release from Saskatchewan Agriculture (SA) confirmed that anthrax had been discovered in bison located northwest of North Battleford, where laboratory results had determined that the disease had killed two bison; anthrax was also suspected as the cause of death of seven others. SA cautioned that animals could contract anthrax by eating forage containing spores that have the bacteria Bacillus anthracis inside them. “The carcasses of any animal suspected of having anthrax should not be moved or disturbed,” the ministry said. “People can get infected through direct contact with sick animals or carcasses. In cases where people believe they have been exposed… they should contact their local health authority or physician for advice.” SA also advised farms that have experienced previous outbreaks to vaccinate all of their animals against anthrax and others to consider vaccination if neighbouring farms have the disease.