You suspect anthrax in cattle on a client’s ranch. Which is the best description of how you should respond?

• A. Tell your client that the clinical signs are consistent with anthrax, you are not sure how the cattle were exposed, and you are going to call the animal health officials to help with answering some of the questions. You let him know anthrax is zoonotic and help him know the appropriate biosecurity measures to take to protect himself, his family, and other animals. When you leave, you tell him you will call him in three to four hours to give him an update. You make sure he has your contact information in case he has questions or thinks of more information he would like you to know
• B. Tell your client you do not know what this is but you will find out and get back to him.
• C. Tell your client that the clinical signs are consistent with anthrax, you are not sure how the cattle were exposed, and you are going to call the animal health officials to help with answering some of the questions. You let him know anthrax is zoonotic and help him know the appropriate biosecurity measures to take to protect himself, his family, and other animals.
• D. You let him know you will be in contact whenever you hear back from the lab.

Answer: (A)

When a suspected case of anthrax is on the table, respond with immediate action that protects people and other animals, and with clear communication to the owner. The best approach combines acknowledging that the signs could be anthrax, arranging official input right away, and proactively sharing safety steps and contact details.

Explain that you’re not guessing or downplaying the risk, you’re activating the proper channel by involving animal health officials who have the authority and expertise to confirm the diagnosis and guide the investigation. At the same time, you directly address biosecurity to reduce the risk to the client’s family and other animals, outlining practical steps they can take now to limit exposure. Clearing up the zoonotic risk with concrete precautions helps prevent transmission and reassures the owner that you’re prioritizing safety.

A key part of the best response is establishing a plan for follow-up. Let the client know you’ll touch base with an update within a short, defined window and provide your contact information so they can reach you with questions or new information. This shows accountability and keeps communication open during a potentially rapidly evolving situation.

Other approaches fall short because they delay escalation, don’t provide concrete biosafety guidance, or fail to commit to timely, ongoing communication.