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WHAT IS ANTHRAX?

Anthrax is the name of the disease caused by the spores of bacteria Bacillus anthracis and affects around 2,000 people per year, mostly in Africa.

The disease is more common in animals. 

Anthrax can be contracted by touching, inhaling or swallowing the spores, which can lie dormant in water and soil for years.

Once inside the body they become active and start producing toxins, which cause the disease.

Symptoms range from blisters to shortness of breath or diarrhea depending on how it enters the body.

The vast majority of cases are caused by skin contact. This is the least deadly form of the disease, with around 75 per cent of patients surviving even without treatment.

If inhaled the spores are far deadlier, with only 20 per cent of people surviving, even if they get medical help.

Source: US Centers for Disease Control 

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