Anthrax is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by a bacteria called Bacillus anthracis. This bacteria can form spores, which are very hardy and long-lasting.

Medically reviewed by Dr Rehaam Ali Khan 


 People usually get anthrax from coming in contact with these spores or eating infected animals or animal products. In people, the three most common types of anthrax are cutaneous (skin), inhalation, and gastrointestinal (digestive system). Cutaneous anthrax occurs when spores enter the body through a break in the skin. The most common symptoms are itchy bumps on the skin that eventually become fluid-filled sores and then black scabs. Inhalation anthrax happens when spores are breathed into the lungs and is considered to be one of the deadliest forms of the disease. Symptoms can start off like those of a cold but quickly become more severe, leading to difficulty breathing, chest pain, fever, chills, fatigue, and shock. Gastrointestinal anthrax results from consuming contaminated food and leads to stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and chills. It’s important to know that although anthrax is serious if left untreated, it is treatable with antibiotics. People who think they have been exposed should seek medical help right away as early treatment will increase chances of survival significantly. It’s also important to be aware of how you can reduce your risk: practice good hygiene habits such as washing hands after touching animals; don’t touch any suspicious looking objects such as unusual packages; avoid eating undercooked meat; wear gloves while handling livestock or their products; avoid handling dead animals unless wearing proper protection such as a mask; and report any cases of unusual illness among animals immediately to authorities.