What is Anthrax?

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by the bacterium bacillus anthracis. The disease is most common in cattle, goat, sheep and antelopes. Animals become infected when they breathe in or ingest spores in contaminated soil, plants, or water.

In areas where domestic animals have had anthrax in the past, routine vaccination can help prevent outbreaks. Humans are at risk of infection when exposed to the bacterial spores in the environment, or infected animals, through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.