Anthrax Facts

What is Anthrax ?

Anthrax is an animal disease that has been around for thousands of years. It's caused by a spore-forming bacteria, Bacillus anthracis, which lives in the soil and on infected animals, such as cattle, sheep, goats, camels, antelope, and other hoofed animals. Spores can be found in pastures in most parts of the world. Like all other bacteria, you can't sense anthrax - it's invisible to the naked eye, odorless, and .

How are people exposed to anthrax?

About 95 percent of the world's human anthrax cases are skin infections, usually the result of handling infected animal products, according to the CDC. The bacteria enter the skin through a cut or abrasion. Many people who come down with cutaneous anthrax (the skin infection) are exposed to the bacteria from handling products made from infected animals, such as wool, hides, leather, or animal-hair items.

In rare instances, people handling contaminated animal products develop inhalation anthrax. Like the Florida Taboid Editor who contracted anthrax, people may breathe in anthrax spores, which can release a toxin that can do fatal damage to the respiratory system and the brain. Finally, if people eat raw or undercooked meat from animals infected with anthrax, the bacteria can invade the intestines.

Is there an approved treatment for anthrax?

Yes. Three types of antibiotics are approved fro all types of anthrax infections: ciprofloxacin (cipro) doxycycline, and penicillin. Other antibiotics can be effective as well. Because the disease is so serious, people who have been exposed to anthrax bacteria - whether or not they have symptoms - should take antibiotics for 60 days to reduce the risk the disease will develop also or to halt it's progression. It also will minimize the chance of developing side effects, such as meningitis.

What should I do if I receive a letter that I suspect contains anthrax?

First of all, don't panic. It's likely that you not dealing with anthrax. Don't shake the suspicious letter or empty it's contents, the CDC advises. Instead, put the envelope or package in a plastic container that can't leak. (If you don't have a container, cover the envelopewith anything at hand - including a trash can or clothing - then leave the room and close the door.) If necessary, have someone cordon off the area to keep other people out. Next wash you hands thoughtly and call 911 to notify the local police and FBI. If you're at work, notify your building's security official or your supervisor.

If you spilled some of the powder don't try to clean it up. Cover it with a piece of paper or towel, then leave the room and close it off so other people won't come into contact with it. The CDC advises that you put any clothing that's come into contact with the powder in a leak-proof bag or container, then wash your hands or shower with soap and water before calling 911.

How can I find out more about

anthrax and bioterrorism?

You can vist the Federal Government Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at http://www.cdc.gov which will give you the latest government advisories as well as updates on reported cases. You may also want to vist John Hopkins University School of Medicine's Center for Civilian Biodefense

Studies.

Thanks to www.bluecrossmn.com for this report.