Anthrax, or splenic fever, is a disease. Both humans and other animals can get it. It is caused by the bacterium bacillus anthracis. It is common with even-toed ungulates (some hoofed creatures, like camels and giraffes). The spores of the bacteria can live for hundreds of years. Humans usually catch the disease from animals. It is usually not passed from one human to another. Anthrax can be treated with antibiotics. There is also a vaccine against it. If not treated, anthrax often leads to death.
Anthrax
Questions and Answers
Q: What is anthrax?
A: Anthrax is a disease that affects both humans and animals caused by the bacterium bacillus anthracis.
Q: What kind of animals are susceptible to anthrax?
A: Even-toed ungulates, such as camels and giraffes, are common hosts of anthrax.
Q: How is anthrax transmitted to humans?
A: Humans usually catch anthrax from animals.
Q: Can anthrax be transmitted directly from one human to another?
A: Anthrax is usually not passed from one human to another.
Q: Is there a treatment available for anthrax?
A: Yes, anthrax can be treated with antibiotics.
Q: Is there a vaccine available for anthrax?
A: Yes, there is a vaccine available against anthrax.
Q: What happens if anthrax is left untreated?
A: If left untreated, anthrax often leads to death.