Anthrax is a critical, oftentimes life-threatening disease triggered by infection by the anthrax bacteria. The bacteria often produce spores that can spread the infection.
It is important to note that anthrax in humans is considered rare unless the spores are spread purposely. Most cases of anthrax occur in livestock such as sheep, cattle, goats and horses. The spores in soil can infect animals who consume plants growing in the soil. Humans can also be exposed to the spores in infected animal products or meat.
What are the causes?
Anthrax is brought about by the Bacillus anthracis bacteria and there are 3 forms of infection:
- Cutaneous or skin anthrax – this occurs if the spores enter the body via a break in the skin
- Inhalation or lung – this occurs after inhaling the spores. This is the most serious form of infection
- Gastrointestinal or digestive – this occurs after consuming food that has been contaminated with the spores.
The condition does not appear to spread from one individual to another. Individuals who are exposed to someone with the disease do not require immunization or treatment unless exposed to the same source of infection.
What are the indications?
The symptoms and incubation period depend on the form of infection present.
Cutaneous
The symptoms typically start 5-7 days after being exposed to the spores but can take longer.
- Initially, there might be a small, elevated bump that is itchy
- The bump turns into a pain-less blister filled with fluid and later progresses to the formation of a black center of deteriorating tissue
- Distended lymph nodes, fever and headache
Inhalation
The symptoms manifest 1-7 days after exposure but can be delayed for up to 60 days.
- Flu with a sore throat, mild fever and muscle aches but other symptoms such as shortness of breath can occur
- Difficulty breathing, high fever and shock after 1-5 days
- Death follows within a day or two.
Gastrointestinal
The symptoms usually manifest in a week after exposure.
- Initially, there are mouth ulcers, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, appetite loss or fever
- As the condition worsens, there is difficulty breathing, blood-streaked vomit or diarrhea or abdominal pain due to fluid buildup
- Shock and death follows within a few days