Baripada, Dec. 16:The veterinary department of Mayurbhanj has begun immunisation of domesticated livestock as a precautionary measure against anthrax in the forest range of Dukura at the foothills of Similipal.

The department has undertaken this measure after anthrax bacteria was found in the blood sample of a dead tusker.

The chief district veterinary officer Nityananda Sahu said: “Anthrax bacteria was found in the serum of a dead tusker during the preliminary test. It will be confirmed after the receipt of the final report from the Animal Disease Research Institute in Bhubaneswar.”

“Therefore, we have decided to immunise all livestock within 3km radius of the place where the body of the tusker was found,” he said.

The carcass of a sub-adult elephant was found at the Sampanchuan foothill village of Similipal on Thursday by the forest staff.

The tusks of about 10-year-old animal were intact. The department had ruled out poaching, as there was no visible external injury. Blood oozed out from the mouth of the elephant when it’s body was found.It was suspected that the reason of death could be anthrax or poisoning.

Baripada assistant conservator of forests, B.B. Swain, said: “Since blood was oozing out from the elephant’s mouth, poisoning or anthrax affliction was suspected.”

Regional chief conservator of forests, H.S. Bist said: “Preliminary test revealed anthrax in the blood sample. The final report is awaited. Suspecting that the death could be due to anthrax, the elephant was buried deep under the earth.”

“Close watch is being maintained to see if other animals are having similar symptoms,” he said.