Advertisement.
A bison carcass found on the side of Highway 3 between Behchokǫ̀ and Fort Providence may be a case of anthrax, the NWT government says.
Anthrax is not uncommon among bison in the territory and past outbreaks have claimed hundreds of animals. Authorities ordinarily initiate a specialized response when new cases are found.
Anthrax is fatal to bison and while it ordinarily does not spread to humans, it “can be dangerous,” the GNWT said, and people are advised to remain away from any carcasses or sick animals.
In this case, the carcass was found at km 164 of Highway 3, in the middle of an area that has been affected by wildfires for weeks.
Advertisement.
Advertisement.
“Laboratory results are currently pending. However, given a preliminary investigation in the field, this is being treated as a suspected anthrax case and an incident management team has been mobilized,” the GNWT stated in a Friday news release.
“If conditions allow for burning, the carcass will be safely incinerated on the side of the road on Saturday or Sunday to prevent scavenging and possible spread if it is confirmed to be anthrax.”
That means traffic may be reduced to one lane in the area this weekend. If you’re passing, don’t stop near the work area and reduce your speed, the GNWT stated.
The incident management team is tasked with detecting and disposing of any dead, infected bison and keeping people away.
Advertisement.
Advertisement.
From May: How are the NWT’s wood bison doing?
Aerial and ground surveillance for more carcasses will take place, along with “incineration or chemical treatment of bison and surrounding grass areas to prevent the spread of spores.”
If you see a sick or dead bison, stay away from it and call the wildlife emergency hotline at 1-866-762-2437.
Related Articles