The good news is that while we all do need to be concerned and cautious, there is no need for panic. There is a lot that you can do for yourself and your family to reduce your risk of getting anthrax. It helps to understand a little bit about anthrax and how you can protect yourself and your family.
Anthrax is caused by a spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. A person needs direct contact with the spores to contract the infection, so it is very rare that it would be transmitted from one person to another. There are three types of serious, human anthrax: cutaneous (skin), intestinal and inhalation.
For all three, symptoms typically appear within seven days and treating with antibiotics as soon as possible is best. Of course, inhalation anthrax is of most concern not only to anyone with asthma, but the public in general. Early symptoms resemble a cold or flu that dissipate for a short time, then return more severely. Inhalation anthrax is most often fatal.
With such a prognosis, how do you guard against such a killer?
First, it is more important than ever to get your flu shot, especially if you have asthma. Most doctors also strongly recommend flu shots for elderly patients and others with sensitive immune systems. Call your doctor.
While a flu shot is not a guarantee against getting the flu, it greatly reduces your risk of contracting what researchers feel will be the most prevalent strain this season. If you’ve had your flu shot and you’re feeling flu-like symptoms, you may want to contact your doctor right away.
Should you consider preventative antibiotics or the anthrax vaccine?
No and no. Many already believe that antibiotics are over-prescribed and that we are creating highly-adaptive, “super” bacteria. Why add anthrax to the list? As for the vaccine, it can have serious side effects and is NOT recommended in general.
Instead, practice some good, honest, common sense.
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