There are three forms of anthrax. The first is the cutaneous form which is contracted by close contact of abraded skin with products derived from infected herbivores, namely sheep, cattle and goats. The symptoms are readily recognizable and successful treatment with any number of antibiotics makes the cutaneous form rarely fatal. While uncommon in the United States with the last reported case in 1992, the cutaneous form remains especially common in parts of Asia and sub-Saharian Africa. A second type of anthrax is acquired through the gastrointestinal route by the consumption of contaminated meat.
Gastrointestinal anthrax is exceedingly rare.
The form most likely to be employed by biological terrorists is inhalation anthrax. In its naturally-occurring state, it has been an occupational hazard of those working in slaughterhouses and textile factories. Immunization of these workers has all but eliminated this hazard in Western nations. Caused by the spore form of anthrax, inhalation anthrax generally occurs 1 to 6 days after infection. A nonspecific flu-like illness is the first sign of infection which is characterized by fever, headache, cough and mild chest discomfort.