ANTHRAX
INTRODUCTION
Anthrax is a bacteria of the strain Bacillus Anthracis. A deadly killer, it has a spore form which is extremely resistant and infectious. Lethal in small doses, it can penetrate either by you coming into contact with infected animals and their products or by inhaling contaminated air, wool or similar substances. In fact, the people most likely to get Anthrax are those working closely with animal products, particularly those residing in rural areas.
Anthrax is an efficient killer, it’s victims being made to suffer the agony of having a sudden onset of difficulty in breathing, profuse sweating, cyanosis, shock and death within 36 hours. In most cases, the symptoms improve after a few hours but the patient begins to deteriorate rapidly soon after. It takes around three excruciating days for the bacteria to destroy the membranes of your lungs and intestines.
A minor scratch or abrasion, usually on an exposed area of the face or neck or arms, is infected by spores from the soil or a contaminated animal or carcass. The spores germinate, vegetative cells multiply, and a characteristic gelatinous edema develops at the site. This develops into papule within 12-36 hours after infection. The papule changes rapidly to a vesicle, then a pustule, and finally into a necrotic ulcer from which infection may disseminate, giving rise to septicemia. Lymphatic swelling also occurs within seven days. In severe cases, where the blood stream is eventually invaded, the disease is frequently fatal.