Languages:

Anthrax

Definition:

A serious bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis that occurs primarily in animals, but can occasionally spread to humans. It commonly affects hoofed animals such as sheep and goats. Infection in humans often involves the skin (cutaneous anthrax), the lungs (inhalation anthrax), or the gastrointestinal tract.

It gets its name from the Greek word meaning "coal" because of the characteristic coal-black sore that is the hallmark of the most common form of the disease. Anthrax is not contagious and can be treated with antibiotics.

Source: GreenFacts, based on WHO, Anthrax 

More:

There has been a great deal of recent concern that the bacteria that cause anthrax may be used as a type of biological warfare, since it is possible to become infected simply by inhaling the spores, and inhaled anthrax is the most serious form of the disease.

Source: MedicineNet.com, Definition of Anthrax 

Related words:

Bacteria

Translation(s):

Español: Ántrax
Français: Maladie du Charbon
Nederlands: Miltvuur

Related publications:
    
FacebookTwitterEmail
  • ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ
  • Themes covered
    Publications A-Z
    Leaflets

    Get involved!

    This summary is free and ad-free, as is all of our content. You can help us remain free and independant as well as to develop new ways to communicate science by becoming a Patron!

    PatreonBECOME A PATRON!