Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)

source: http://www.bact.wisc.edu/Bact330/lectureanthrax

method of delivery: bacteria can be in form of white powder, oily media, or spores

symptoms of exposure: cutaneous—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. The sore, blister and ulcer do not hurt. gastrointestinal—first symptoms are nausea, loss of appetite, bloody diarrhea, and fever, followed by bad stomach pain. inhalation—first symptoms of inhalation anthrax are like cold or flu symptoms and can include a sore throat, mild fever and muscle aches. Later symptoms include cough, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, tiredness and muscle aches.

incubation period: 12 hours—5 days

effects: hemorrhage, edema, death

structure: large, rod like bacteria with squared ends and ellipsoidal endospores

references:

o http://www.bt.cdc.gov/agent/anthrax/index.asp

o http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/281/18/1735?#SEC5

o http://www.bact.wisc.edu/Bact330/lectureanthrax