With cases of Anthrax being reported on the news, we have received
numerous questions about this disease. The following is a brief summary
of Anthrax.
Where does Anthrax come from?
Anthrax is a disease caused by a bacteria called Bacillus anthracis. The bacteria is found in many wild and domesticated animals throughout the world and is even found in soil samples in rural parts of the United States. However, our national animal immunization program has controlled the spread of the natural occurring disease.
What is Anthrax?
Anthrax causes three types of disease.
1) Cutaneous anthrax occurs after direct contact with the anthrax spores. Symptoms usually begins as a painless, single red bump (often at the site of a cut or abrasion) that progresses to a blister followed by an ulcer and then a black scab.
2) Gastrointestinal (GI) anthrax occurs after eating contaminated UNDERCOOKED meat. Though initial symptoms are similar to a stomach virus (nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting, and fever), GI anthrax progresses to severe abdominal pain, persistent fever, vomiting blood, and bloody diarrhea.
3) Inhalation anthrax occurs after inhaling a LARGE quantity of anthrax spores. Though initial symptoms mimic a cold, inhalation anthrax will result in increased breathing difficulty (respiratory distress), persistent fever, and cyanosis (turning blue on face/tongue/lips).
How soon would one see symptoms after exposure?
Symptoms will usually begin within 7 days of exposure.
Is it easy to get inhalation anthrax?
No. Anthrax is not an easy illness to deliver, because a large concentration of a modified anthrax bacterium (difficult to make) is required as well as a delivery system. Though we have seen two cases of inhalation anthrax in Florida, it is a very difficult agent to spread. Remember that even though numerous people have tested positive for anthrax exposure, a majority have not developed any symptoms of the illness.
Is anthrax contagious?
Spread of anthrax from person to person is extremely unlikely (if it occurs at all) as a large number of spores are required for infection. (as per CDC Facts about Anthrax)
Can anthrax be treated?
In exposed persons, anthrax may be prevented with antibiotic therapy. The CDC has a plan for antibiotic delivery in case of exposure. They will run and coordinate the delivery of medications if needed.
Anthrax usually is susceptible to common antibiotics.
Can my child receive the anthrax vaccine?
No. The vaccine
is not available for people outside the military (and is not approved
for use in people under 18 years of age).