A minor scratch or abrasion, usually on an exposed area of the face, neck, or arms, is inoculated by spores from the soil or a contaminated animal or carcass. The spores germinate, vegetative cells multiply, and a characteristic gelatinous edema develops at the site. This develops into papule within 12-36 hrs after infection. Lymphatic swelling also occurs within seven or so days. In severe cases, where the blood stream is eventually contaminated, the disease is frequently fatal, but with effective antibiotic treatment, few deaths occur.
Humans also can contract anthrax by eating meat from infected animals.
This is known as intestinal anthrax. This form of anthrax is characterized by an acute inflammation of the intestinal tract. Initial symptoms may include nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting and fever. As the infection progresses, there may be severe abdominal pain, vomiting of blood and severe diarrhea. Broad-spectrum antibiotics may be effective against intestinal anthrax.