Absolutely. But you may find that you will need a very large axe for the job. I heard tale that Vicar Amelia transformed to a beast nearly two stories high, for example.
Augmented strength. The ability to roar, and deflect projectiles - that's why I don't recommend grenades to take on a beast, actually - and of course claws in moments of anger. Anger, as you might expect, is linked to transformations for those who do not have my training. Although Although I should not be egotistical; all with the plague will one day fall to their anger.
There is no need for you to take on this responsibility alone, if you would not prefer to.