NCJ Number
191688
Journal
Journal of American Medical Association Volume: 286 Issue: 19 Dated: November 21, 2001 Pages: 2392-2397
Date Published
2001
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper summarizes recent cases of anthrax.
Abstract
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has been investigating terrorism-related cases of anthrax. Investigations in New York identified one confirmed inhalation case and six cutaneous anthrax cases, four of which were associated with media companies. Some of these patients are postal workers believed to have handled envelopes containing B. anthracis spores. Their symptoms were fatigue, fever, cough and shortness of breath. Figure 2 summarizes the clinical evaluation of people with possible inhalational anthrax. To date, six of the 10 patients with inhalational anthrax survived. Those whose symptoms were recognized early fared well. Eleven patients were diagnosed with cutaneous anthrax. Lesions developed on their skin. Editorial note: Since the last report, six new anthrax cases have been reported, three of which were occupational exposures. A fourth case was not linked to previous contaminated sites. Two other cases could not be traced to previously reported sites. Since September 11, and because the cases are being intentionally perpetrated, public health agencies need to be vigilant for new cases. CDC is working with the postal service and health departments on guidelines for identifying populations that should receive anti-microbial treatment for prevention of anthrax. Figure 3 summarizes the clinical evaluation of people infected with cutaneous anthrax. Postexposure treatment can prevent inhalational anthrax. Since no one antibiotic is more effective than another, considerations for choosing an antimicrobial agent include effectiveness, resistance, side effects and cost. References