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Anthrax (disease)

Anthrax is a disease that causes skin lesions and respiratory distress. It can be fatal. It is extremely resilient, and can live outside the body for years. It can be a serious threat to cattle, but due to modern medicine, this is more rare than it used to be. Anthrax has also made the news due to its occasional use in bio-terrorism.

222 Questions

Where do people get anthrax?

Bacillus anthraces is the bacterium better known as Anthrax. The anthrax spores can be found on every continent but is most commonly found in third world countries lacking adequate veterinary programs.

How expensive is the anthrax vaccine?

The cost of the anthrax vaccine can vary depending on factors such as location, availability, and whether it is administered in a private or public health setting. In the United States, the vaccine may range from $50 to several hundred dollars per dose, especially if not covered by insurance. Additionally, the full vaccination series typically involves multiple doses, which can increase the overall expense. It's best to check with local health providers for specific pricing.

Who is the inventor of antibiotics of anthrax?

The first effective antibiotic for anthrax is penicillin, discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. However, it was not specifically developed for anthrax treatment. The antibiotic used to treat anthrax, particularly in the context of the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, is often ciprofloxacin or doxycycline, which were developed later. The understanding of antibiotics and their application for various bacterial infections evolved over time, with numerous scientists contributing to this field.

Why is anthrax considered so dangerous?

Anthrax is considered dangerous due to its potential as a bioweapon and its ability to cause severe illness in humans and livestock. The bacterium Bacillus anthracis can form resilient spores that survive in the environment for long periods, making it easy to disseminate. Upon entering the body, these spores can lead to serious infections affecting the skin, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract, often resulting in high mortality rates if untreated. Moreover, its rapid onset and severe symptoms can overwhelm healthcare systems during outbreaks.

Is anthrax curable?

At early stages yes, with high doses of penicillin or other antibiotics. But if you wait to long its too late.

How do humans get anthrax?

In humans, the disease is almost always an occupational hazard, contracted by those who handle animal hides (farmers, butchers, and veterinarians) or sort wool.

What are the different strains of anthrax?

There are 89 different strains of anthrax. One of the most notable is the Ames strain, which is highly virulent. The Ames strain was the strain used in the 2001 attacks.

What is intestinal anthrax?

Intestinal anthrax is a rare, often-fatal form of the disease, caused by eating meat from an animal that died of anthrax.

Is anthrax a bacterium?

No. Anthrax refers to the disease itself. The bacterium that causes it is Bacillus anthracis.