Anthrax :: essays research papers

1. The splenic fever bacillus is considered the first "germ" proved to cause serviceman disease. In 2001, Anthrax was deliberately spread through the postal system by sending letters with powder containing anthrax. This caused 22 cases of anthrax infection.2. Anthrax is a serious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a bacterium that forms spores. There are three types of anthraxskin (cutaneous)lungs (inhalation)digestive (gastrointestinal)3. Anthrax is not cognize to spread from one person to another.Humans can become infected with anthrax by handling products from infected living creatures or by breathing in anthrax spores from infected animal products (like wool, for example). People also can become infected with digestive anthrax by eating undercooked meat from infected animals.4. The symptoms (warning signs) of anthrax are different depending on the type of the diseaseCutaneous The first symptom is a small sore that develops into a blister. The blister then develops into a skin ulcer with a black area in the center. Gastrointestinal The first symptoms are nausea, loss of appetite, bloody diarrhea, and fever, followed by bad stomach pain. inspiration The first symptoms of inhalation anthrax are like cold or flu symptoms and can include a sore throat, mild fever and ponderosity aches. Later symptoms include cough, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, tiredness and muscle aches.5. Antibiotics are used to treat all three types of anthrax. Early identification and treatment are important. Treatment is usually a 60-day course of antibiotics. Success depends on the type of anthrax and how soon treatment begins.6. Vaccination. There is a vaccine to prevent anthrax, solely it is not yet available for the general public. 7. Those who are often exposed to animals, or those in developing countries, especially those without strong veterinary public wellness programs.8. The bacteriums destructive properties are due largely to toxins, which consist of thr ee proteins protective antigen, edema factor, and lethal factor.Protective antigen (PA) binds to select cells of an infected person or animal and forms a channel that permits edema factor and lethal factor to enter those cells.Edema factor (EF), once inside the cell, causes fluid to accumulate at the aim of infection. EF can contribute to a fatal buildup of fluid in the cavity surrounding the lungs. It also can inhibit some of the bodys immune functions.