ANTHRAX
Bacillus Anthracis
Description:
Anthrax--Bacillus Anthracis--is highly lethal! In spore
form, Anthrax is quite stable and very suitable as an
aerosol weapon.
Signs and Symptoms:
Inhalation--Pulmonary (lungs)--Incubation 1-6 days
Fever, malaise, cough and mild chest discomfort,
rapidly followed by severe respiratory distress with
labored breathing, sweating, harsh breathing sounds,
and bluish or gray skin. Shock and death follow within
24-36 hours of severe symptoms. Even with treatment
of heroic measures, Pulmonary Anthrax is:
Virtually 100% FATAL
Antibiotic Prophylaxis would be successful.
Cutaneous (skin—sores)
A pimple develops, then blisters, finally forming a
small black scab of dead tissue surrounded by swelling.
Fever may be present. The lesions are usually painless.
Left untreated the local infection may progress into
blood poisoning and Death. Untreated cases have a
20% death rate. With treatment, fatalities are rare.
Antibiotic Prophylaxis would be successful.
Gastrointestinal (intestines—guts)
Contracted from ingesting spore- or bacillus-infested
food or water—esp. meat.
Signs of distended abdomen, sweats, occasional blood-
tinged feces or discharges of pure blood may develop.
Bluish skin, occasional elevated temperature and
labored breathing precede Death. Gastro-Anthrax is
rare but 100% FATAL
Antibiotic Prophylaxis would probably FAIL!
Antibiotic Prophylaxis would probably FAIL!
Anthrax is not considered contagious in the ordinary
sense although it can be contracted from infected or
infested food, clothing and body fluid!
War Engine:
Anthrax is spread primarily by aerosol. It has the
potential of producing mass casualties who would then
swiftly overwhelm all medical facilities and response
teams in the area.
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