Minnesota cattle deaths continue to climb

Chicago - Anthrax is believed to be the source of the deaths ofat least 80 cattle in northwest Minnesota, according to the state boardof animal health.

State investigators expect the cattle deaths to continue until coolerweather turns the bacteria dormant. Anthrax is a bacteria that, in rarecases, can infect humans.

According to Terry Boldingh, district field veterinarian for Minnesota'sBoard of Animal Health, the state has seen three new cases each week.

Investigators say the Minnesota outbreak of late, which began in mid-June,is larger than most in the nation. This summer's livestock toll in Minnesotais 80 beef cattle, two horses, and two deer at 16 locations

Anthrax can kill untreated livestock such as cattle, horses, and sheep.

The outbreak in the northwest has prompted area ranchers to vaccinatetheir cattle.