Anthrax is a bacterial disease that can infect all warm blooded animals including man.
Anthrax is primarily an occupational disease.
It is occasionally identified in individuals who are exposed to dead animals and animal products such as wool and hair imported from other countries. The infection is very rare in animals in the United States. The anthrax bacteria can live in the soil for many years. Man may become infected with anthrax by inhaling contaminated soil particles or by handling wool or hair from diseased animals. Infection of the intestinal tract can occur by eating undercooked meat from diseased animals.