Another name for anthrax is woolgatherer's disease. Textile workers are commonly vaccinated against it. As part of preparations against possible aggression by Iraq, the U.S. Defense Department recently ordered that all military forces be vaccinated against the disease. While in its first phase, anthrax is relatively easy to detect and treat. It initially causes flu-like symptoms, followed by severe chest congestion.
Anthrax can then go dormant for several days.
Anthrax spores can live for years in carcasses buried in the ground. One of the most toxic naturally occurring substances known. The toxin was injected into him from the tip of an umbrella as Markow was waiting for a bus. Like anthrax, the bacteria can be found in soil, and occasionally strikes people who eat badly canned food or fish in which the bacteria has grown. The bacteria produces an extremely toxic substance, botulinum, that causes blurred vision, dry mouth, difficulty in swallowing or speaking, weakness and other symptoms.