What is Anthrax?

About Anthrax

• It is a highly infectious disease that is caused by the gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis.
• It affects animals like cows, sheep, and goats, as well as wild herbivores. 
• Even humans can get sick if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
• Anthrax bacteria also occur naturally in soil.
• Symptoms of anthrax
  • The disease manifests in three forms depending on the route of infection: cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalational.
  • Cutaneous anthrax, the most common form, presents with itchy bumps that develop into black sores, often accompanied by fever and muscle aches.
• How is anthrax diagnosed?
  • It can be diagnosed by identifying Bacillus anthracis in blood, skin lesions, or respiratory secretions through laboratory culture, PCR, or ELISA tests.
  • While there is no specific test to determine exposure to anthrax, public health investigations play a crucial role in identifying potential cases.
• Treatment: It is available and includes antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, or levofloxacin.
• Vaccines are also available for both livestock and humans.

Q1) What is Bacteria ?

Bacteria are small single-celled organisms. Bacteria are found almost everywhere on Earth and are vital to the planet's ecosystems.

Source: Anthrax outbreak in South Africa: All you need to know about the infectious disease