Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan State Agrarian University

Faculty of veterinary medicine

Department of epizootology, microbiology and parasitology

Lecture: Anthrax

Lecturer: teaching assistant Narmin Alasgarova

 Anthrax
Anthrax, an acute infectious disease of historical importance, is once
again regaining interest with its use as a biological weapon. It is caused
by Bacillus anthracis, a Gram positive spore forming rod usually
surrounded by a capsule and producing toxin. It occurs most frequently
as an epizootic or enzootic disease of herbivores that acquire spores
form direct contact with contaminated soil. Spores can survive for many
years in soil. Animal vaccination programs have reduced drastically the
disease in countries. In humans, the disease is acquired following
contact with anthrax infected animals or their products. 3 types of
anthrax infection can occur: cutaneous, inhalational and gastro intestinal.
Cutaneous anthrax is the most common observed form. When
germination occurs, replicating bacteria release toxin leading to
hemorrhage, edema, necrosis and death. Full virulence of B. anthracis
requires the presence of both antiphagocytic capsule and 3 toxin
components (protective antigen, lethal factor and edema factor). Most
naturally occurring anthrax strains are sensitive to penicillin but resistant
to third generation cephalosporins.
Bacillus anthracis is the causative agent of Anthrax and has been
adapted for use in bioterrorism. It is a large Gram-positive aerobic, rod
shaped, bacillus bacterium.
Spore and Vegetative State of Bacillus anthracis
B. anthracis is a bacterium that can exist in a spore (endospore) , a
capsule and a vegetative state. A spore is a dormant and resilient
structure that can exist for extended periods of time with a lack of
nutrients. The capsule of Bacillus anthracis, composed of poli-D-
glutamic acid, serves as one of the principal virulence factors during
Anthrax infection.
B. anthracis can form spores that are resilient to harsh environments,
such as ultraviolet and ionizing radiation, heat, and various chemicals. A
spore can germinate to exist in its vegetative state when the
environmental conditions are favorable. To become a spore again,
sporulation occurs, thereby ensuring the survival of  B. anthracis during
a destructive environmental condition.
Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-
shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax can be found
naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals
around the world. People can get sick with anthrax if they come in
contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
Domestic and wild animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, antelope, and
deer can 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. Anthrax is more common in developing countries and
countries that do not have veterinary public health programs that
routinely vaccinate animals against anthrax.