Anthrax :: viruses, diseases,vaccines

A minor scratch or abrasion, usually on an exposed domain of the face or neck or arms, is infected by spores from the flat coat or a contaminated animal or carcass. The spores germinate, vegetative cells multiply, and a characteristic gelatinous edema develops at the site. This develops into papule within 12-36 hours after infection. The papule changes promptly to a vesicle, then a pustule, and finally into a necrotic ulcer from Unlike chemical agents like Cyanide which disperse over time, splenic fever spores can survive in soil, water and elsewhere for as massive as 40 years and is highly resistant to eradication. They can single be killed by steam sterilization or burning, but non by disinfectants. An infection of wild stock populations could follow a biological attack with spores. The infected animals could then pass on the disease to people. An splenic fever Vaccine does exist and it is at present produced under contract to the department of Defense. The immunization con sists of lead injections given two weeks apart followed by three additional shots given at 6, 12, and 18 months. Annual booster injections of the vaccinum are required to maintain a protective level of immunity. This fussy method is effective when dealing with Anthrax contacted through the skin and is believed to be effective against inhaled spores in the case of a biological war attack. For those unvaccinated individuals, antibiotics like penicillin is known to lessen the severity of the illness, two million units either two hours administered intervenouslyIt was formerly thought that inhaled spores are 100% fatal in spite of treatment but monkeys exposed to Anthrax spores have responded successfully to antibiotics, implying that antibiotic therapy may be useful in a biological warfare setting.