Bosnian authorities confirmed that several cows in Livno area (Bosnia and Herzegovina) have died from anthrax, prompting fears that the contagious illness could spread to neighbouring Croatia.

The total of nine samples analysed showed that six of the dead cows had been infected. So far, fourteen deaths have been reported, and while the situation is alarming, no epidemic warning has been issued.

The authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina have sent an appeal to all cattle owners in Livno and neighboring villages to keep their animals from grazing as the source of disease was located in the fields. They are worried that some owners may try to hide the infected cattle and bury them in fields against the normal protocol.

The experts say that the disease could spread easily to neighbouring Croatia due to the closeness of the border.

The authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia are expected to collaborate and develop preventative measures that would contain the potential spread of the disease, the daily Vecernji List writes