What is anthrax and how dangerous is it?

What is anthrax?

Anthrax is an infection caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. The disease can affect both animals and humans. In animals, the infection can cause a range of symptoms, including swelling, fever and death. In humans, the infection primarily affects the skin in the form of lesions, but it can also cause lung problems and other serious symptoms.

Where did the diagnosis get its name from? 

Anthrax comes from the Greek word “anthrakis,” meaning “coal.” The name comes from the black sores that can form on the skin of people and animals infected with the bacteria.

Anthrax got its name because of the characteristic lesion that occurs in the spleen and liver of infected animals. According to Sundhed.dk, the name in Danish is also due to the fact that the disease was previously perceived as a disease that could occur in connection with haymaking and milking animals.

How dangerous is anthrax?

Anthrax can be a serious infection if not treated early. In some cases, anthrax can also be fatal. Anthrax has a mortality rate of up to 90% in untreated cases. 

The bacterium is not found in Denmark and it is primarily animals, such as farm animals, that are infected with the bacterium. It is generally a rare disease in the West and there are few cases in Europe, most in Romania and Bulgaria. 

How do you get anthrax?

Anthrax can be transmitted to humans through contact with animals that carry the bacteria or through consumption of contaminated food or drink. It can be spread from person to person, but this is rare. The primary route of transmission is from animals to humans. 

How can you avoid anthrax?

According to the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration, anthrax can be prevented by avoiding contact with infected animals and animal products, including meat and wool. It is also important to handle meat and other animal products properly to avoid spreading the bacteria.

What are the risk factors?

Risk factors for developing anthrax include contact with infected animals or animal products, such as meat or wool. People who work with animals, such as slaughtering and raising animals, are at increased risk of becoming infected with the anthrax bacteria. People who travel to areas with a high incidence of anthrax may also be at increased risk of becoming infected.

How is anthrax treated?

Treatment for anthrax depends on the severity and form of the disease. Antibiotics are usually the primary treatment, and early treatment is crucial for the prognosis. More severe cases may require hospitalization, and in some cases, intensive care and supportive care may be necessary. An anthrax vaccine is also available for people at increased risk, such as military personnel and laboratory workers who work with the bacteria. The vaccine is not usually available to the public, and its effectiveness against all forms of anthrax is not fully assured.

Why is anthrax known as a biological weapon?

Anthrax is a serious disease that can be fatal if left untreated, and the bacteria are relatively easy to produce. Therefore, anthrax has been a popular disease to use as a biological weapon, as it can be spread effectively in airborne form and cause extensive damage to populations. According to an article, anthrax was also part of biological warfare during World War I.