Anthrax outbreak hits Harmanli farm

Authorities confirmed an anthrax outbreak at a livestock operation in Slavyanovo village, Harmanli municipality, affecting approximately 200 sheep and 100 cattle. Regional Governor Stefka Zdravkova told BTA that laboratory analysis detected the bacterial pathogen at the facility late last week.

Veterinary teams initiated animal vaccination programs at the infected site and at neighboring farms while disinfecting the area. The anthrax bacterium produces resilient spores that survive in soil for extended periods after exposure to oxygen.

Zdravkova, a veterinarian, expects the infection will remain contained to one location. She noted that human transmission rarely occurs through casual contact with affected livestock.

The Municipal Epizootic Commission will convene on Wednesday in Harmanli to establish control measures. Officials will likely prohibit animal movement from the contaminated zone and close shared grazing areas and water sources.