Anthrax

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Context

• Surveillance and preventive measures were intensified at Athirappilly in Kerala’s Thrissur as anthrax has been confirmed in wild boars found dead in the area.

About

• Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis.
• The spores that house Anthrax bacteria are naturally present in soils.
• It commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world.
• People can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
• Anthrax can cause severe illness in both humans and animals.
• There's no evidence that anthrax is transmitted from person to person but it's possible that anthrax skin lesions may be contagious through direct contact.
• Signs and symptoms can include skin sores, vomiting and shock.
• Prompt treatment with antibiotics can cure most anthrax infections.
• Anthrax vaccination is recommended for people at high risk of infection.
• Inhaled anthrax is more difficult to treat and can be fatal. Anthrax is very rare in the developed world. However, the illness remains a concern because the bacteria have been used in bioterrorism attacks in the United States.
• The American disease control arms of the government have categorized Bacillus anthracis as a Category A threat, a rank designated for dangerous elements that pose a hazard to national security.

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