Wellness Center

Protection from the Anthrax Bacteria

What Can You Do?

There is no absolute protection from anthrax. Anthrax spores can float in the air or lie in the ground for long periods of time. Anthrax is colorless and odorless. Anthrax is rare in humans but dangerous if contracted. There are several types of treatment and common sense ideas for self-protection.

Is There a Vaccine or a Cure?

The Vaccine

There is an anthrax vaccine for both animals and humans. If given before exposure, the vaccine has proven to be quite effective. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you should be vaccinated:

• If you work directly with the organism in the laboratory
• If you work with imported animal hides or furs
• If you handle potentially infected animal products – usually in other countries
• If you are military personnel deployed in high-risk areas
• If you might have been exposed to the organism

The immunization process consists of three injections given two weeks apart followed by additional injections at 6, 12, and 18 months. Annual booster injections are recommended.

The Treatment

Symptoms of anthrax usually occur within a few days of exposure, and could include one or more of the following:

• Blisters or sores on the skin with a dark spot in the middle. Nearby lymph glands could be swollen.
• Cold symptoms that quickly progress to severe breathing problems.
• Nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting of fluid or blood, fever, abdominal pain, and severe diarrhea.

If you have any suspected symptoms of anthrax, see a doctor immediately. If you know you have been exposed, see a doctor immediately. There are various antibiotic treatments that can be effective. Delaying treatment or no treatment can be fatal. It is highly unlikely that you could get anthrax from another person.

What Common Sense Steps Can I Take?

If you receive a suspicious package or letter that contains a powdery substance, the CDC recommends that you:

• Do not shake or empty the contents of the envelope or package
• Place the envelope or package in a plastic bag to prevent leakage of the contents
• Cover the envelope or package with a towel, trash can, or whatever else is available if you don't have a plastic bag or container
• Leave the contents where they are and cover them with a towel, paper, or trash can if any powder spills
• Leave the room, close the door, and turn off any air conditioning or heat
• Wash your hands with soap and water to prevent any spreading to your face
• Report the incident to local police and building security
• Make a list of all the people in the area who might have been exposed to the letter or package and give the list to police or whomever is investigating the situation

What Is a Suspicious Letter or Package?

Suspicious characteristics might include:

Notify police or security personnel if you suspect any letter or package. Do not explore or handle the suspected materials yourself.

Summary

In most cases, it is not necessary to be vaccinated for anthrax. If you are exposed or in a high-risk group, you will be notified and given instructions for vaccination. If you suspect any anthrax symptoms, seek medical help immediately. The sooner treatment starts, the more effective it is.

Sources:

1. Anthrax Q and A:Risk. Centers for Disease Control.
2. Anthrax. Electric Library Encyclopedia.

3. How To Handle Anthrax and Other Biological Agent Threats. Centers for Disease Control Health Advisory.

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis of specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt professional medical attention if you have a particular concern about your health or specific symptoms.