A brief guide to anthrax.

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. The organism is found in soil and is directly transmissible to humans via skin abrasions or by inhalation or ingestion of airborne spores. This article provides an overview of the history, microbiology and epidemiology of anthrax, and the various types of the disease. The article also discusses diagnosis and treatment as well as vaccination and infection control issues. In light of recent publicity over the use of anthrax as a form of bioterrorism, all health care workers should develop sufficient knowledge of anthrax, including how it is spread and the risk to the general public, in order to be able to provide appropriate information if necessary.