The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) confirmed anthrax in a Briscoe County steer in late December.
The infected animal was on now-quarantined property 4 miles north of Silverton.
The disease can infect humans and animals and has been found in the Panhandle before, but it is more common downstate.
The commission said anyone with livestock or wildlife displaying symptoms like acute fever, bleeding and death should contact a veterinarian or the commission immediately.
Anthrax is a naturally occurring, reportable disease affecting cattle, deer, livestock, exotic livestock, horses, swine, and other herbivores. Anthrax can affect humans.
Anthrax is caused by Bacillus anthracis; a sporeforming bacteria. The bacteria can remain alive, but dormant in the soil for several years.
Anthrax is found worldwide, but in Texas, cases are most often confined to a triangular area bound by the towns of Uvalde, Ozona and Eagle Pass. This area includes portions of Crockett, Val Verde, Sutton, Edwards, Kinney and Maverick counties.
The bacteria can surface, contaminating soil and grass after periods of wet, cool weather, followed by hot, dry conditions. During these conditions, animals ingest the anthrax bacteria when they consume contaminated grass and hay, or by inhaling the spores. The spores are odorless, colorless and tasteless. Wildlife may transmit the disease through contact with other infected animals.
Research is underway to further understand how anthrax and wild animals, such as feral swine, play a part in transmission. Flies may also act as a mechanical vector.
Upon laboratory confirmation of the disease, the TAHC will work closely with the affected landowner to prevent disease spread by quarantining the premises to restrict animal movement. Anthrax quarantines are typically lifted after proper disposal of carcasses and/or vaccination of livestock on the premises has been completed.
Carcasses infected with anthrax must be properly disposed of in accordance with TAHC rules and regulations. Owners and/or caretakers must burn carcasses until they are thoroughly consumed to prevent further contamination of the soil. Fuels approved by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) include gasoline, diesel or wood. In counties with a burn ban, burning MUST be coordinated with local fire authorities prior to carcass disposal.
Reports can be made to any TAHC region office or to the TAHC headquarters at 1-800-550- 8242.