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Case of anthrax discovered at Wiltshire farm

It is the first case in an animal since 2006 Credit: PA/Frank May

A case of anthrax has been discovered in a cow in Wiltshire - the first case in an animal since 2006.

There are restrictions on the farm at Westbury. The cow has been incinerated.

It has been confirmed that no cattle from the field have entered the food chain. A local footpath has been closed. Wiltshire Council is taking "swift action" to deal with the case, saying it is working with partners locally and nationally.

Anthrax is caused by the organism Bacillus anthracis, which can be found in cattle or other hoofed mammals.

A man died in 2006 in Scotland from the disease, which was believed to be the first case for 20 years.

The risk of infection in close human contact with the animal is very low.

– Public Health England