Bacillus Anthracis

Common name

Anthrax

Type of disease

Bacterial

How is it transmitted

inhalation, ingestion, skin contact with spores

Is there an animal or insect vector?

Animal vector (not insects)

General signs and symptoms

• Skin ulcers

• fever

• Chills

• Cough

• Chest discomfort

What body systems/organs are involved?

• skin

• Lungs

• Gastrointestinal tract

Any toxins or virulence factors?

anthrax toxins and protective capsule

How is agent commonly identified?

• gram stain (+)

• Biochemical tests

• PCR

How does each bacteria stain for gram, endospore, capsule, acid fast?

• gram stain +

• Endospores

• Capsule

What shape do each bacteria have?

Rod shaped

Classic signs/symptoms

Blac eschar (skin ulcer) or severe respiratory diseases

Treatment, cure, common antibiotics?

Doxycycline (antibiotic)

Vaccine available?

Yes

How can transmission be prevented?

• vaccination

• Proper handling of animal products

• Protective clothing