Vaccination

Anthrax

Since this disease does not represent a risk for the ordinary traveler, the vaccination is not recommended. Only workers who deal with infected animals, mainly in regions with inadequate control programs for anthrax in livestock − Central and South America, the Caribbean, Eastern and Southern Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa − may consider vaccination. Routine preexposure vaccination may also be advisable for selected groups who may be exposed to an intentional release of the bacteria Bacillus antracis (e.g. terrorist attacks).

Anthrax may occur throughout the year and animal-related cases have a peak incidence in spring and summer. The most common way of transmission is through direct contact with an infected animal, but eating undercooked infected meat may transmit the bacteria. Infection may also be acquired by inhalation of airborne or aerosolized spores. In the recent past the world noticed an effective bioterrorist attack with exposures to B. anthracis (USA, 2001). Although very rare, the human-to-human transmission of cutaneous anthrax may occur.

Anthrax infection can be treated effectively with antibiotics if identified early. If untreated, may be fatal. Primary vaccination with the adsorbed vaccine consists of six doses administered subcutaneously at 0-2-4 weeks and 6-12-18 months, with one annual booster to maintain immunity.

Fernando Costa Silva, 2002 (last update: 2009)