Anthrax is a disease of humans and cattle with a potential for biological warfare. It is caused by

Anthrax is a severe zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis [1][t1]. It primarily affects herbivorous mammals like cattle and sheep, but humans can acquire the infection through contact with infected animals or contaminated products [t5][t6]. The causative agent is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped, spore-forming bacterium [t4][t8]. These spores are highly resistant to environmental stress, allowing the organism to persist in soil for long periods [t5]. Due to the high stability of its spores and the potential for aerosolization, Bacillus anthracis is recognized as a significant agent for biological warfare and biodefense [t2][t5]. Historically, it was the first bacterium shown to cause disease by Robert Koch in the 1870s [t8]. While antibiotics can treat the bacterial infection, they are ineffective against viruses or protozoa [c2].

Sources

1. [1] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 12: Animal Diversity of India > 12,7. W ILDLIF E DISEASES > p. 193