Anthrax

Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis.  It primarily affects herbivorous animals that ingest spores from contaminated soil, but humans can acquire the disease when spores enter the body through inhalation, ingestion, or cutaneous inoculation.  Clinical presentation varies based on the location of spore entry.  Anthrax is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates and remains a public health concern due to its potential use as a biological weapon.

B anthracis is endemic to agricultural areas in sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America, Central and Southwest Asia, and Eastern Europe.  Although outbreaks occur in the United States, Canada, and Western Europe, anthrax is rare in these areas due to effective animal vaccination programs and strict agricultural regulations.  Globally, anthrax remains a significant concern due to its potential use for bioterrorism.