Anthrax

Anthrax is mostly found in animals, and humans usually become infected when they come into contact with infected animals, their products, or soil contaminated with spores. In the US, the disease is most commonly found in livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

One of the most well-known cases of Anthrax in modern times was the 2001 Anthrax attacks. In September of that year, letters containing Anthrax spores were sent through the US postal system, resulting in the deaths of five people and the infection of 17 others. It is believed that anthrax Bacillus was obtained from a strain initially isolated from cows and its spores were weaponized to be used as bioterrorism.

The symptoms of Anthrax depend on the type of infection a person has. There are three types of Anthrax infections: Cutaneous (skin), Inhalation (lungs), and Gastrointestinal (digestive system).

Cutaneous Anthrax is the most common type and occurs when spores enter through a cut or scrape on the skin. Symptoms often appear within one to seven days and include a painless skin sore with a black center, swelling, and redness. The sore then turns into an ulcer with a black center over several days.

Inhalation Anthrax occurs when spores are breathed in, and it is the most severe form of Anthrax, and it can be deadly. The symptoms can take up to two months to appear and initially mimic flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and chest pain. Later symptoms include shortness of breath, confusion, and shock.

Gastrointestinal Anthrax occurs when spores are consumed, and its symptoms appear within one to seven days. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting blood, bloody diarrhea, followed by severe abdominal pain. This form of anthrax can cause death in up to 60% of cases.

Anthrax is diagnosed through laboratory tests to determine the presence of the bacterium or its antibodies in the blood or other body fluids. Treatment of Anthrax depends on the type of infection and its severity.

Cutaneous Anthrax can usually be treated with oral antibiotics, but in some cases, the disease can progress and require hospitalization. Inhalation and Gastrointestinal infections are much more severe and require aggressive treatment with intravenous antibiotics and possibly assisted breathing.

Prevention of Anthrax is critical, especially in areas where it is known to be present. Vaccines are available for individuals who may be at risk, such as veterinarians and laboratory workers, and people who work with infected animal hides or wool.

Bacillus anthracis has the potential for use as a biological weapon because of its stability as spores in soil and its rapid lethality. As a consequence, it has been intensely studied, and the USA government had developed plans to quickly deal with outbreaks of the disease. Fortunately, it is a rare disease in developed countries, and outbreaks can usually be contained with proper prevention measures, early detection, and treatment.

In conclusion, Anthrax can be a devastating disease if not detected and treated early. It’s essential to be aware of the symptoms and to take preventive measures if you work with animals or animal products. Vaccines and antibiotics are available for those at risk and, in outbreak situations, the treatments are effective. However, public health measures are still key to a successful control of the spread of the disease.