Anthrax Flashcards
What is the causative agent of Anthrax?
Bacillus anthracis
What is Bacillus anthracis?
Bacterial, gram-positive
What are the most common modes of transmission for Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)?
Vehicle (air, soil), indirect contact (animal hides), vehicle (food)
What are the virulence factors for Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)?
Triple exotoxin
How do you culture/diagnose Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)?
Culture, direct fluorescent antibody tests
How do you prevent Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)?
Vaccine for high-risk population; used in conjunction with antibiotics post-exposue
What are the epidemiological features of Anthrax (Bacillus anthracis)?
Internationally 2,000-20,000 cases annually, most cutaneous
Category A Bioterrorism Agent