What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by bacteria called Bacillus Anthracis.
How can you contract anthrax?
- Inhalation: anthrax spores are breathed into the lungs. This is the most dangerous route of infection but it takes a large dose to produce infection and is the most rare form of the disease.
- Skin Contact: spores inter through an open sore on the skin such as a cut or abrasion when handling contaminated materials. Infection is characterized by bumps on the skin that progress to swelling blisters. Scabs that form over the lesions are deep black.
- Ingestion: the disease may occur after eating contaminated food.
What are the symptoms and effects of Anthrax?
After an incubation period of 1 to 7 days, the onset of inhalation anthrax is gradual. Possible symptoms include:
- Fever
- Malaise
- Fatigue
- Cough
Chest discomfort followed by severe respiratory distress
What is the treatment for Anthrax?
- The administration of antibiotics such as penicillin, doxycycline, and ciproflaxin are all effective against most strains preferably within a day after exposure.
- An anthrax vaccine is available and consist of 6 doses administered over 18 months with yearly boosters. While the vaccine is known to protect against skin acquired infection, it may not be as effective with inhaled infection. As well, there may be side effects and there is a long administration period of 18 months.
- Decontamination can be achieved by boiling contaminated articles, and/or using common disinfectants such as chlorine.
For additional information on anthrax and bioterrorism issues, please visit the The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety web site.
Protecting Workers from Biological Terrorism Index
