Prevention | Blackleg

The most effective means of control is a proper vaccination program. A multivalent vaccine is suggested.  The first dose should be given at two months of age, and a second injection at either four weeks before preweaning or at the time of weaning. If animals are located in an endemic  area, another booster should be given. The vaccine is cost effective at less that $0.30 per dose.

In the event of an outbreak, individuals between 2 months and 2 years should be vaccinated or revaccinated. A two-week period post vaccination exists during which antibody levels are not high enough to incur resistance, and animals may continue to be lost.

Moving animals away from the site of contamination is desired but even this is not always effective. Carcasses from deceased animals should be incinerated to discourage spreading the bacterium.