How is Anthrax transmitted?

Cutaneous anthrax

Cutaneous anthrax occurs when *B. anthracis* spores enter a cut or abrasion in the skin, leading to the formation of a skin lesion called an eschar. The eschar is initially small, painless, and may resemble an insect bite. However, it quickly develops into a larger, black, necrotic lesion with surrounding edema. The eschar is characterized by a central black area and a surrounding red, swollen area. It can be very painful and may take several weeks to heal.

Inhalation anthrax

Inhalation anthrax is the most severe form of the disease and is often fatal if not treated quickly. It occurs when *B. anthracis* spores are inhaled into the lungs. After inhalation, the spores are taken up by macrophages and transported to the lymph nodes, where they germinate and multiply. The infection then spreads to the bloodstream, leading to severe symptoms such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and shock.

Gastrointestinal anthrax

Gastrointestinal anthrax is a rare form of the disease that occurs when *B. anthracis* spores are ingested through contaminated food or water. After ingestion, the spores germinate and multiply in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

Anthrax can also be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or their blood, but these modes of transmission are very rare.