Anthrax is a rare and potentially deadly bacterial disease. The infectious agent responsible is Bacillus anthracis which is a bacterium that is present in both wild and domesticated animals such as goats, cattle, sheep, deer and horses.
It is important to note that the Bacillus anthracis bacteria produces spores that have durable shells that allow the microbes to survive even in harsh conditions. These spores remain infectious for long periods of time. They can live in the soil for many years.
Indications in humans
The indications of anthrax in humans is usually based on how the disease was acquired such as the following:
- Fever
- Skin lesions
The skin starts to itch and develops a sore that turns into a blister that might break and bleed. - Generalized malaise
- Headache
- Cough
- Digestive issues such as vomiting
- Joint pain
- Chest pain
- Flu-like symptoms
Types of anthrax
- Cutaneous – the skin is the commonly affected body part. The bacteria can enter via a graze or cut. The skin starts to itch and develops a sore that turns into a blister that might break and bleed. After 2-7 days, the ruptured blister turns sunken, dark-colored or a black scab. If not treated, it can spread to the lymph nodes or bloodstream.
- Pulmonary – a rare infection in the lung can occur if the spores are inhaled. Initially, the infection manifests as a mild upper respiratory infection such as the flu or cold. The health of the individual quickly deteriorates over the next few days to include severe breathing issues and shock.
- Intestinal – occurs if an individual consumes undercooked meat of an infected animal, usually from one that perished in the field. The early indications include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea and fever.
How is it diagnosed
Anthrax is usually diagnosed using various tests such as the following:
- Blood tests
- Chest X-ray
- Skin tests
- Spinal tap of the cerebrospinal fluid
Management
The treatment for anthrax must be started as soon as possible. In most cases, it includes antibiotics and being admitted in an intensive care unit.
The commonly used antibiotics include doxycycline, ciprofloxacin and amoxicillin. When it comes to children, amoxicillin is used.