Blackleg (disease)

[4][5] C. chauvoei is Gram-positive, rod-shaped, anaerobic, and motile, and can produce environmentally persistent spores when conditions are not ideal for growth.

These spores can remain in the soil for years in an inactive state, and return to their infectious form when consumed by grazing livestock.

[6] Cases can occur over many years in areas where soil or manure is contaminated with the bacteria, and it is exceedingly difficult to remove the spores from the environment.

[citation needed] When infection begins, the animal may develop a fever, and the affected limb can feel hot to the touch.

[citation needed] The use of a seven-way clostridial vaccination is the most common and cost effective preventative measure taken against blackleg,[5] but its efficacy is disputed.

[2] Burning the upper layer of soil to eradicate left-over spores is the best way to stop the spread of blackleg from diseased cattle.