Sunday, 23 April 2006, 14:16 GMT 15:16 UK
Two cows have died of anthrax on a beef farm in south Wales, it has been confirmed by the assembly government.
Tests were carried out on the unnamed farm in Rhondda Cynon Taf after the sudden death of five cows in April.
The assembly government said all five carcasses had been burnt on site to ensure there was no risk to the public.
The anthrax was discovered through routine testing. It is believed to be the first case in Britain since 2002, when a cow died at a farm in Wrexham.
An assembly government spokeswoman confirmed the farm in the latest cases had once tested positive for anthrax 35 years ago.
Anthrax spores can persist in the environment, notable soil, for years. An anthrax infection can be treated successfully with antibiotics when the disease is identified early.
BBC Wales
