Anthrax Outbreak in Nigeria: An Issue for Concern?

Anthrax is a highly pathogenic zoonotic disease that is attributed to the aerobic, rod-like Gram-positive bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. This disease primarily affects domestic and wild herbivores through the consumption of vegetation, water or soil and inhalation of air or dust contaminated with highly resistant B. anthracis spores. Humans become infected through inhalation, ingestion of animal and animal products, injection of hard drugs and cutaneous routes through contact with infected animals or carcasses. The outbreak of anthrax frequently occurs in regions with high levels of agricultural practices, including Africa and Asia.