Anthrax- a scary word due to its association with the threat of biological warfare. And not just in the plot of an apocalyptic movie. In 2001, anthrax spores were used to contaminate U.S.mail, killing 5 people who were exposed. But the disease anthrax, caused by the bacteria Bacillus anthracis, is rare and not uniformly fatal.
When I attended medical school, we learned it as “woolsorter’s disease” since the spores can be released from processing wool or animal hides. The bacteria live in soil, so are spread wherever soil goes.
Fortunately, antibiotics are effective against anthrax . There is also a vaccine which currently is only used in situations of possible exposure such as military service or work in a research lab.
The Merck Manual provides a complimentary, helpful synopsis of the condition here-
via Anthrax – Bacterial Infections – Merck Manual Consumer Version.
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watercress words by Dr Aletha 