Anthrax | IAS GYAN

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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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