Show Posts
46
Common Forum / Basic information about Anthrax
« on: August 31, 2010, 10:49:27 AM »What is Anthrax?
Anthrax is infectious disease caused by bacteria named Bacillus anthracis.
Anthrax most commonly occurs in domestic and wild animals such as cow, goats and sheep.
However, human can be infected from domestic and wild animals suffering from anthrax diseases
Please note that spores/eggs of Anthrax are used as a bioterrorist weapon.
What are signs and symptoms of anthrax infection?
Fever and flu-like symptoms
· The anthrax infection can be easily detected to observe the following typical signs in a sequential manner on the face, arms or hands of affected individual:
o Redness of skin with itching
o Develop blister
o Black spot on the center of the blister
o Develop painless ulcer with a black area in the center
Note: these symptoms can occur within 7 days of exposure and infection
How it is Spread or Mode of Transmission?
· Humans can become infected with anthrax by handling infected animals or by inhaling anthrax spores from contaminated animal meats, blood, and saliva.
· Anthrax can also be spread by eating undercooked meat from infected animals.
Is anthrax transmitted person to person?
No. Anthrax is not contagious.
The illness cannot be transmitted from person to person. Therefore, there is no need to separate individuals suspected of being exposed to anthrax or suffering from anthrax diseases or coworkers.
What drugs are usually used for treatment of anthrax?
Ciprofloxacin, doxycycline and penicillin are choice of drug for the treatment of anthrax in adults and children.
Is there a vaccination for human anthrax?
A protective vaccine has been developed for anthrax; however, it is primarily given to military personnel. Vaccination is recommended only for those at high risk, such as workers in research laboratories that handle anthrax bacteria routinely. The antibiotics used in post exposure prophylaxis are very effective in preventing anthrax disease from occurring after an exposure.