The Minnesota Board of Animal Health is asking livestock producers to be on the lookout for cases of anthrax, after confirmed cattle deaths from the disease in South Dakota. Doctor Courtney Wheeler says anthrax most commonly affects cattle, sheep and goats and is almost always fatal

Wheeler says producers in areas where anthrax has been previously identified should vaccinate their animals.

The last confirmed case of anthrax in Minnesota was in June 2013. Since the year 2000, anthrax has only been found in northwestern Minnesota. All confirmed cases must be reported to the Minnesota Board of Animal Health. People are susceptible to this disease and should contact their health care provider if concerned about their health or exposure.