When you hear the word anthrax , you probably think of something from a Hollywood movie or a scary story in the news. It's normal to feel a little scared when you hear this name. But the truth is, this is a very rare disease in our country as well as in the world. However, it is very important to be aware of this. So let's see what anthrax is and how to protect yourself from it.

What exactly is Anthrax?

Simply put, anthrax is an infection caused by a bacterium. It is caused by a type of bacteria called `Bacillus anthracis` . This bacterium has an amazing ability. That is, it can survive for many years in places such as soil and animal fur by forming a special protective shell called spores under adverse environmental conditions.

Think of it like a dormant bacterium. When it enters our body, it finds a favorable environment. Then the spore coat breaks, the bacteria wake up, and start multiplying. Then the bacteria produce toxins that are harmful to our body. The symptoms are caused by those toxins.

How do we get this disease?

This disease is most commonly seen in farm animals such as cattle, goats, and sheep. The risk of humans contracting this disease is very low. However, these bacterial spores can be transmitted through the following ways:

• Through a skin wound: When something containing bacterial spores, such as soil, animal fur, or leather, comes into contact with a scratch or wound on the skin. This is the most common way anthrax is contracted.
• By inhalation: By inhaling airborne spores. This is the most dangerous and severe method.
• Through the food route: By eating undercooked meat contaminated with spores.
• By injecting drugs: This disease has also been reported among people who inject drugs such as impure heroin. However, this is very rare.

In our context in Sri Lanka, those who work on farms, work closely with livestock, and are involved in the animal tanning industry are at particular risk.

What are the symptoms? How do you recognize this?

The symptoms of anthrax depend on the way the bacterial spores enter the body, and there are four main types.

When should you see a doctor?

This is the most important thing. If you have even the slightest suspicion that you may have been exposed to anthrax , even if you have no symptoms , see a doctor immediately. Or go to the Emergency Department (ETU) of the nearest hospital.

For example, if you work with animals and suddenly notice an unusual, painless, black lesion on your skin, don't ignore it.

If your doctor examines you and suspects you may have anthrax, they will order tests such as these to confirm the diagnosis:

• Blood tests: Check the blood for antibodies against the anthrax bacteria or toxins produced by the bacteria.
• Examining a skin sample: If there is a skin lesion, a small sample is taken and examined under a microscope.
• Chest X-ray or CT scan: If respiratory anthrax is suspected.
• Stool test: If infection is suspected through the alimentary canal.
• Spinal Tap: A test that takes a small amount of fluid (spinal fluid) from the spinal cord if meningitis is suspected.

What are the treatments?

Anthrax is a completely curable disease if diagnosed and treated early. Delaying treatment is the most dangerous.

The main treatment is antibiotics . Depending on the severity of the disease, these medications may need to be taken for as long as 60 days. In severe cases, hospitalization is required and antibiotics are given intravenously (IV) through saline.

Sometimes, a special type of medicine called an antitoxin is given to neutralize the toxins produced by the bacteria in the body.

Is there a vaccine for this?

Yes, there is a vaccine to protect against anthrax. But it is not a vaccine for the general public. This vaccine is only given to people at very high risk . That means:

• People who work in laboratories with anthrax bacteria.
• Some people engaged in industries related to animal skins and furs.
• Military officers in some countries.

So, the average person doesn't need to worry about this vaccine.