Lab tests were positive on samples from two cattle that died on a farm in the Rural Municipality of Paynton, about 60 kilometres northwest of North Battleford.

The rest of the herd is being vaccinated and no other deaths are expected on that farm.

Anthrax spores can remain in the soil for decades. There are periodic cases of anthrax around the province, usually in very dry or very wet years. The worst outbreak in recent times occurred in 2006 when several hundred cattle died of anthrax in the northeast part of the province.

Livestock producers in areas with previous anthrax cases are strongly encouraged to have their animals vaccinated. Cattle, bison, sheep and goats are all susceptible.

The Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture has more information on anthrax here.