[Anthrax]

Abstract

Anthrax is a severe infectious disease by Bacillus anthracis. It can cause massacres among large herbivores, but means also a threat to humans. The latter develop mainly cutaneous anthrax, which they mostly survive. Inhalation can lead to more severe infections which, without medical intervention, are virtually always lethal. At the moment the disease draws much attention since it is thought to be a potential weapon in the hands of bioterrorists.