The disease is transmitted from animal to human and can be fatal without treatment. All possible measures have therefore been taken to prevent the spread of infection, according to the ministry.
– The case is under complete control and there is no reason to panic, says Inoslav Brkić at the local authorities.
More than a hundred cattle have died within two weeks and the authorities decided to take samples of the carcasses after reports that the animals had shown neurological symptoms.
Four people are also being cared for for skin symptoms, reports the state television channel HRT.
The eruption took place in Lonjsko Polje, a 500-square-kilometer area consisting of protected wetlands southeast of the capital Zagreb. In the area, horses, cattle and pigs roam freely and it is known for its bird life and richness of fish. The area is popular with hikers.
Anthrax is caused by a spore-forming bacterium that can remain inactive in the soil for a long time.