Bacillus Anthracis

Bacillus Anthracis is a bacterium that causes the life-threatening disease anthrax. It is a Gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that is found in soil, and can form dormant spores that can survive for years in the environment. The bacterium produces an exotoxin that produces severe clinical symptoms, including death, when it is inhaled or ingested. Vaccines are available to protect humans and animals against this toxin, and antibiotics can also be used to treat infections. As such, Bacillus Anthracis is an important organism to be aware of and protect against.