subject: The Threat of Anthrax [print this page] The Threat of Anthrax The Threat of Anthrax
There was a time that the world was threatened with anthrax (as it still is) as this fatal virus was said to have been used by terrorists to disrupt world order. Anthrax is an infectious disease that originates from a bacterium called as bacillus anthracis. This virus is commonly found in animals like camels, antelopes, goats, sheep and the like. Humans can actually carry this virus if they are exposed to the animals that are infected with the virus.
Symptoms of anthrax
Once a person is inflicted with anthrax, its symptoms would be evident in a week's time. When the infection occurred cutaneously, or when the virus entered through a cut or a wound on the skin, when handling animals inflicted with anthrax, symptoms include itchiness and appearance of skin bumps that are similar to insect bites. Some swelling may also occur. When anthrax is inhaled, symptoms include common colds, serious breathing problems and shock. If anthrax is ingested, symptoms include constant vomiting, nausea, fever, loss of appetite, abdominal pains, and chronic diarrhea. Anthrax is very dangerous and can easily be the cause of death.
Prevention of anthrax
In countries where the threat of anthrax exists, animals that are likely to have the anthrax virus should be vaccinated accordingly. Meat coming from these domesticated animals should be avoided. If one cannot avoid eating meat, make sure that the meat you are eating are handled and cooked properly. There is also a need to have anthrax vaccinations for humans.
Treatment for anthrax
Doctors isolate bacillus anthracis from the infected person's blood, skin abrasions or secretion to diagnose the existence of anthrax. Then they measure the antibodies of the individual. Once diagnosed with anthrax, your physician would prescribe for you potent antibiotics you can take. This could only be effective if the virus is found in an earlier stage and treated appropriately. If an anthrax case is left unmonitored and untreated, it can cause the untimely death of the infected person.found in animals like camels, antelopes, goats, sheep and the like. Humans can actually carry this virus if they are exposed to the animals that are infected with the virus.
