Anthrax
Abstract
The etiologic agent of anthrax, a disease primarily associated with herbivores, is Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax, the Greek word for coal, describes the black, coal-like appearance of the eschar formed during the cutaneous form of the disease seen in humans and certain other species. B. anthracis is a large Gram-positive endospore forming bacterium which exists either as spores or vegetative cells. Spores are typically found only in environmental samples or body tissues exposed to atmospheric oxygen and are resistant to heat, freezing, drying, and most disinfectants. They also remain viable for long periods in animal by-products (i.e., bone meal, hides), contaminated soil, and equipment used to dispose of carcasses. This report discusses the Habitat of Bacillus antracis; The Disease; Pathogenesis; and Disease Control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 21, 1984
- Accession Number
- ADA154065
Entities
People
- J. W. Ezzell Jr.
Organizations
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases