The disease caused by Bacillus anthracis that can affect cattle, sheep, goats, and humans is anthrax.
Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Its hardy spores can persist in soil for long periods, and grazing livestock may become infected when they ingest contaminated soil or plants. Humans can also contract anthrax, although the route and form of infection vary.
The disease has several recognized forms, including cutaneous anthrax, inhalation anthrax, and gastrointestinal anthrax. In livestock, sudden death may occur, sometimes with severe bleeding. Because infected carcasses and contaminated materials can spread spores, suspected cases require strict veterinary and public-health control.
Anthrax is different from foot-and-mouth disease, which is a viral disease causing fever and blisters in cloven-hoofed animals. Vaccination and proper carcass disposal are important tools in areas where anthrax occurs. The bacterium’s ability to form durable spores is central to its environmental persistence.