Decontaminating and disposing of anthrax carcases

Proper decontamination and disposal of anthrax-infected carcases are critical to preventing the spread of the disease, protecting human health, and minimising environmental contamination.

Livestock owners and veterinarians must:

  • always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
  • follow the procedure for response to a suspected anthrax case, particularly to collect diagnostic samples for testing, before decontamination or disposal.

Carcase disposal

Do not move or touch carcases without advice from Biosecurity Queensland.

  • Biosecurity Queensland will coordinate disposal with the livestock owner and the Department of Natural Resources and Mines, Manufacturing and Regional and Rural Development (DNRMMRRD).
  • Do not transport carcases to a knackery or any other location.

Burning

Burning is the preferred method for disposing of infected carcases and should be done at the site where the carcase is found.

  • Make all individuals assisting aware of the risks to human health.
  • Follow all necessary precautions for permits and fire control during preparation and burning.
  • Ensure there is sufficient fuel and airflow to achieve a hot and efficient burn of the entire carcase to ash.

Burial

If burning is not possible, burial may be used as an alternative.

Steps for burial:

  1. Bury the carcase with at least 1m of soil coverage (preferably 2m).
  2. Treat the carcase with quicklime (pH 11–13).
  3. Record the burial site location using a global positioning system (GPS) reading.
  4. Decontaminate the surface soil with a 5% formaldehyde solution (see details below).

Leave to decompose

If burning or burial is delayed or not feasible, the carcase may be left intact to undergo natural putrefaction.

  • Prevent scavenging by erecting a secure fence or barrier around the carcase.
  • Decontaminate the carcase and surrounding soil with a 5% formaldehyde solution.

Personal decontamination process

To prevent contamination and infection, follow these decontamination steps.

While standing on the contaminated site:

  1. Remove mud and grass from boots and place them with the carcase for disposal.
  2. Remove disposable overalls, masks and gloves, and wrap them in a plastic bag for later disposal.
  3. Place reusable overalls in a strong plastic bag or bucket, then soak them in a disinfectant for at least 12 hours.
  4. Scrub boots with disinfectant, ensuring all dirt (especially from the soles) is removed.
  5. Place boots in a plastic bag or bucket and keep them damp for at least 12 hours.
  6. Double-bag all reusable PPE for removal.
  7. Place any used sharps in a sharps container and wrap the container in plastic.
  8. Separate clothing and other equipment into plastic bags.
  9. Wash your hands and all exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.

Additional precautions:

  • Mark the site where wash-down occurs for later disinfection when the carcase has been disposed of.
  • Do not walk back over contaminated ground in street shoes.
  • Take a shower and launder any clothing worn during the procedure as soon as possible.

Biosecurity Queensland will give further advice on the specific decontamination process.

Personal disinfectants

There are no disinfectants registered for use on skin.

If skin contamination occurs:

  • Wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water.
  • Contact your general practitioner (GP) or local public health unit immediately.

Contain water used for washing to a small area. Once dry, disinfect the area with glutaraldehyde or formaldehyde.

Equipment and clothing disinfectants

These disinfectants are suitable for equipment and clothing, but must not be used on skin.

Virkon

  • Effective against anthrax spores
  • Use at 1:120 dilution with a 30-minute wet-contact time

Glutaraldehyde (4%)

  • Mix 200mL of Microcide per 5L of water
  • Suitable for clothes and equipment with a 4-hour exposure time
  • Follow the product label or Safety Data Sheet (SDS)

Formaldehyde (5%)

  • Suitable for disinfecting equipment
  • Follow the product label or SDS when using formaldehyde or formalin

Always follow safety instructions and regulatory requirements when using chemicals. Refer to the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) for approved chemical use and handling guidelines.

Site decontamination

Decontaminate soil contaminated by anthrax using a 5% formaldehyde solution:

  1. Apply the solution liberally at a rate of 5L/m².
  2. Keep the soil moist for 12 hours.
  3. Follow label instructions or the SDS for handling formaldehyde or formalin.

Biosecurity Queensland will work with DNRMMRRD to record site details for future reference.

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