Anthrax
BMT Presentation
Cause of Anthrax
Anthrax is caused by a bacteria called Bacillus Anthracis.
How is the Anthrax transmitted?
Anthrax is in soil by nature and usually affects animals that live in the wild. If people come in contact with an animal that has anthrax then the person would have to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What Are some symptoms?
- Some symptoms of cutaneous anthrax are, a small group of blisters that then later turn into a painless sore that swells.
- Some symptoms of inhalation anthrax are, mild fever, coughing up blood, nausea, shortness of breath, and chest discomfort.
- Some symptoms of gastrointestinal anthrax are, fever and chills, hoarseness, headache, fainting, and stomach pain.
How is anthrax treated?
Anthrax is treated by a 60 day antibiotic. Which antibiotic you take depends on your age, how you got it, and your health overall. Some choices would be ciprofloxacin, doxycycline. You could also take a combination of antibiotics to receive a better outcome.
Ways you can prevent yourself form getting Anthrax...
Antibiotics can be prescribed to people who have been exposed to Anthrax but hasn't developed any symptoms. Another way to prevent Anthrax is to get the vaccine, but this vaccine isn't given to the general public.
Anthrax and Bacillus anthracis
Interesting Facts
- The symptoms of anthrax start showing after 7 days.
- There are more than 3 types of Anthrax, but the 3 listed above are the 3 most serious.
- There has been no recorded transfer of Anthrax from human to human (basically its not contagious).
- The vaccine is usually only given to lab workers who deal with Anthrax, veterinarians who deal with animals, and some members of the US Military.