Anthrax is caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis. It can infect humans through contact with infected animals or animal products, as well as through inhalation of anthrax spores. There are three main types - cutaneous (skin), inhalation (lungs), and gastrointestinal (digestive system). Symptoms vary depending on type but can include lesions, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory issues. Anthrax spores can also be used as a biological weapon. Diagnosis involves cultures and antibody tests while treatment requires long courses of antibiotics.
5. Through Animals Humans can become infected after handling infected animals Breathing anthrax spores from infected products (like wool) Eating undercooked meat from infected animals (Undercooked meat)
6. How is it transmutable? As a biological weapon Anthrax spores can be distributed Ex. USA 2001, anthrax spores spread through postal system via letters containing spores
12. cutaneous anthrax Raised itchy bump (resembles incest bite) 1-2 days, develops into a vesicle (cyst) Develops into painless ulcer (1-3 cm diameter) Ulcer has black center Swelling of surrounding tissues Swelling of adjacent lymph glands
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14. Gastrointestinal Anthrax Initial signs: nausea Loss of appetite Vomiting blood Sever diarrhea Lesions & soreness in throat Difficulty swallowing Swelling of neck &lymph glands 50% of all patients develop meningitis
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16. Inhalation anthrax Flu/cold like symptoms Cough Chest discomfort Shortness of breath Tiredness & muscle aches
20. Anthrax is acute (of abrupt onset, of short duration, rapidly progressing & in need of urgent care) People can’t become immune to anthrax Can get anthrax multiple times
21. What parts of the body are affected? In cutaneous anthrax: Skin, surrounding tissues & lymph glands In gastrointestinal anthrax: Digestive system, neck & lymph glands In inhalation anthrax: Respiratory & immune system
24. Further treatment Prevention after exposure: Antibiotic & vaccine combo Treatment after infection: 60 day course of antibiotics Success depends on type of anthrax & how soon treatment was started Anthrax is terminal if left untreated