Collection

Anthrax: guidance, data and analysis

The diagnosis, management, and vaccination of anthrax.

Anthrax is a bacterial disease which primarily affects herbivorous animals, although all mammals are susceptible to infection. In humans, anthrax can affect the skin and, rarely, the respiratory or gastrointestinal tract. It is caused by Bacillus anthracis, spores of which can survive in the environment for many years.

Anthrax is a notifiable disease in England.

More information about anthrax is available on the health protection website.

Diagnosis and management

Rare and imported pathogens laboratory (RIPL) is a specialist centre for advice and diagnosis for a wide range of unusual viral and bacterial infections including anthrax.

Vaccination

See information on UK’s licensed anthrax vaccine.

Published 11 September 2008