Humans may become infected by handling contaminated hides or wool, or by examining infected carcasses. Symptoms Symptoms associated with anthrax depend to a certain degree on the species involved and the route of infection. When infection takes place through the skin because of injury or insect bites, it appears localized at the site of injury in the initial stage. The affected area is initially hot and swollen, and becomes cold and insensitive. Later, the infection can become generalized.
Anthrax usually is a fatal disease with no symptoms observed.
Upon or near death, blood oozes from the body openings. This blood is heavily laden with anthrax organisms. There is a marked bloating and rapid decomposition of the carcass. If the infection is less acute, there may be a sudden staggering, difficult breathing, trembling, collapse, and death. In horses, colic may be observed.