A suspected anthrax outbreak is underway in the Slave River Lowlands bison population, according to the Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC).
Fifteen bison carcasses were discovered between Fort Smith and Fort Resolution over the last weekend.
Although test results are still pending, ECC is treating the situation as an active outbreak as a precaution.
Out of the 15 suspected cases, no confirmed cases were reported.
Bison can become infected by inhaling anthrax spores while wallowing in dust baths or by ingesting them while grazing.
Anthrax can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals, carcasses, or animal parts, although the illness does not seem to spread from person to person.
ECC advises residents to refrain from approaching, hunting, or consuming bison in the Slave River Lowlands until further notice, and prevent domestic animals from doing so as well.
Individuals should avoid turning up soil where the bison were found.
Residents suspecting they have interacted with a sick bison or the surrounding soil are urged to contact their local health centre.
Dead bison should be immediately reported to 1-867-872-6438. For more information, visit the government’s website.
