The epizootiology and epidemiology of anthrax in Kars District, assessment of anthrax cases recorded between 1995 and 2000, some characteristics of B. anthracis strains isolated from various sources.

In this study, a total of 61 Bacillus anthracis isolates originated from 45 cattle, 6 sheep and 10 humans were examined for pathogenicity, motility, haemolysis, susceptibility to bacteriophage and sensitivity to 14 various antibacterial agents. In addition, the number of anthrax cases recorded in animals and humans by Kafkas University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Microbiology and City Health Centre, Department of Contagious Diseases of Kars, were retrieved between 1995 and 2000 (for the first 8 months of 2000). All isolates were found to be susceptible to bacteriophage, non-motile and pathogenic for mice. Four cattle and 1 sheep isolates showed a week haemolytic activity. All Bacillus anthracis strains originated from humans, cattle and sheep were determined to be moderately susceptible to sodium cefuroxime but were susceptible to all antibacterial agents used. 123 animal anthrax cases and 309 human cases of anthrax belong to various ages and sexes were diagnosed between 1995 and 2000 when the records were retrospectively examined. The situation and economical aspects of the anthrax in this district were discussed, and the methods of prevention were suggested accordingly.