What body systems does anthrax attack?

The anthrax bacterium can cause disease in both humans and animals, and the symptoms of the infection can vary depending on the route of exposure. The three main forms of anthrax are cutaneous (skin), inhalation, and gastrointestinal.

1. Cutaneous anthrax:

- Initially, a small, itchy bump resembling an insect bite develops.

- Within 1-2 days, the bump enlarges and forms a painless black eschar (dead tissue) in the center with surrounding swelling.

- The area around the eschar may be swollen and red.

- Systemic symptoms, such as fever, fatigue, and headache, may also develop.

2. Inhalation anthrax:

- Initial symptoms resemble those of the common cold or flu, including fever, chills, fatigue, muscle aches, and cough.

- Severe respiratory symptoms may develop, such as shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and severe cough with bloody sputum.

- Shock, organ failure, and rapid deterioration may follow leading to death within days if untreated.

3. Gastrointestinal anthrax:

- Occurs when anthrax spores are swallowed, often from contaminated food or water.

- Initial symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

- Severe cases can lead to dehydration, shock, and death if untreated.

Anthrax can affect multiple body systems, including the respiratory system (inhalation), the gastrointestinal system (gastrointestinal), the skin (cutaneous), and potentially other organs in severe systemic infections.