These are the first anthrax micrographs, taken by Robert Koch
Anthrax is an acute infectious disease found in warm-blooded animals. Anthrax spores can be made into a dry form (for biological warfare) which may be stored and ground into particles. Anthrax is most common in agricultural regions where it occurs in herded animals, such as goats, camels, and llamas.These include South and Central America, Southern and Eastern Europe, Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Middle East.
The bacteria Bacillus Anthracis causes the
disease known as anthrax. A person can become infected by inhaling anthrax
spores, ingesting meat tainted with the bacteria, or through cuts or abrasions
in the skin.
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Effects of Anthrax
Skin Form
Causes an itchy raised bump on the skin with a black,
dying area in the center.
Inhaled Form
Resembles a common cold, progressing into severe breathing
problems and shock.
Ingested Form
Initial signs of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite,
and fever are followed by abdominal pain, vomiting of blood, and severe
diarrhea.
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Treatment for All Forms
Symptoms usually occur within seven days of initial infection.
Effective treatments for anthrax are penicillin, erythromycin,
tetracycline, and chloramphenicol. Treatment must be initiated immediately
after symptoms occur, or result may be fatal. There is a vaccine for anthrax
that is given to workers in occupations that have a history of anthrax
cases or people in the military.
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The Vaccine
Does not use live anthracis bacteria, reducing the risk
of complications.
93% effective in preventing infection.
Side effects can include:
Soreness, itching, swelling, lumps, muscle and joint
aches, headaches, rash, chills, fever, nausea, loss of appetite, or malaise.
Side effects usually subside in 2-3 days.
