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What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is a disease caused by the spore-forming bacteria Bacillus anthracis. Although it can occur naturally when humans are exposed to infected animals or animal parts, anthrax spores can be used as a biological weapon. In the United States in the fall of 2001, several letters containing anthrax spores were sent through the mail; 22 people were infected with anthrax and 5 of these people died. All of the people who died had the inhalational form of anthrax. No case of anthrax related to bioterrorism has occurred in Canada.
There are three forms of anthrax:
- Cutaneous (skin infection), the most common and most easily treated, is acquired when anthrax spores enter the skin through cuts and abrasions.
- The inhalational form (lung infection) is acquired by breathing in anthrax spores.
- The gastrointestinal form (gut infection) is acquired by eating anthrax spores incontaminated food.
What are the signs and symptoms of anthrax?
- Cutaneous anthrax presents as an itchy, swollen area on the skin (much like an insect bite) that blisters and then enlarges into a painless, round, black ulcer. Areas of the skin that were in direct contact with the suspicious substance are the most likely to be affected.
- Inhalational anthrax initially presents as a flu-like illness: fever, shortness of breath, cough, muscle aches, mild chest discomfort and vomiting. Within hours to days, after a possible short period of improvement, it can progress to severe illness.
- Gastrointestinal anthrax presents with sores in the mouth or throat, nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain and can progress to severe illness.
Symptoms of anthrax could take up to 60 days to show, although most people will not become ill.
How do I handle a potential exposure? What do I do if I may be exposed?
If you suspect that you or anyone in your household has been exposed to anthrax, or has received a suspicious package contact your local emergency services (Police, Fire or Emergency Medical Services) immediately; in most places this is done by calling 9-1-1. Emergency services personnel will assess the situation and advise you what to do next.
In addition, you can take precautions to protect yourself. You should:
- Isolate the article and leave the immediate area.
- Wash your hands and other exposed areas with soap and water.
- Do not use bleach or other disinfectants on your skin as they may cause skin damage.
- Take a shower with soap and shampoo.
If some of the powder has spilled on your clothes, you can wash your clothing with warm water and ordinary laundry detergent and bleach.
What is the treatment?
Antibiotics are effective against the anthrax bacteria. Anthrax is not contagious between infected people.
Is there a vaccine and how do I get it?
Anthrax vaccine is not a licensed vaccine in Canada and is therefore not available. The vaccine currently available and in use by the US military has numerous side effects and requires multiple doses to maintain immunity. Research is underway to develop a better and safer vaccine.
Can I get treatment if I have been exposed but do not have symptoms?
Yes, you can take antibiotics if you have been exposed to anthrax spores to prevent illness. The antibiotics most commonly used for preventing illness are ciprofloxacin and doxyccycline.
How do I get more information?
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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