B. anthracis spores can live in the soil for many years, and humans can become infected with anthrax by handling products from infected animals or by inhaling anthrax spores from contaminated animal products. Anthrax can also be spread by eating undercooked meat from infected animals. It is rare to find infected animals in the United States. Symptoms of disease vary depending on how the disease was contracted, but symptoms usually occur within 7 days. Lymph glands in the adjacent area may swell.
Deaths are rare with appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
After several days, the symptoms may progress to severe breathing problems and shock. Inhalation anthrax is usually fatal. Initial signs of nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting, fever are followed by abdominal pain, vomiting of blood, and severe diarrhea. Anthrax can be found globally. It is more common in developing countries or countries without veterinary public health programs.