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In light of the ongoing threats of bioterrorism related to anthrax, people who have contact with animals have expressed concern about their risk of contracting the disease. In the opinion of the Bureau of Animal Health, the current situation does not represent any increased risk of anthrax for people owning or handling animals.

Anthrax already exists in the United States and has been here probably for centuries. The bacteria are common in soil, especially where livestock have been grazed, or around barns where livestock are kept. The bacteria, when exposed to oxygen, converts to a spore form which is highly resistant to degradation and can persist in soil for decades. Despite this widespread presence of anthrax spores in soil around the country, the spontaneous occurrence of clinical anthrax in animals and people has remained historically very low.

It is true that farm animals can get anthrax spores on their hair, wool and skin from laying in contaminated pastures or barnyards. However, again, it usually requires repeated contact and exposure to animal skin, hair and fleece by people before people can become infected. Therefore, most cases of human anthrax, when they occur, are seen in people working in industries where such contact is common and repetitive. This would include sheep shearers, slaughterhouse workers, textile workers, and veterinarians. Even when such people contract anthrax, it is usually the milder skin form that develops, not the more lethal respiratory form. Companion animals such as dogs and cats, are unlikely to carry anthrax spores on their hair coats unless they are farmyard residents.

So, the Bureau does not perceive an increased risk of exposure to animals at this time. As a general precaution, anyone petting or handling animals should always wash their hands after such contact. This is good common sense for preventing a variety of diseases, not only anthrax. If you are involved in shearing, you should wear gloves and long-sleeved clothing. In addition, the wearing of a face mask, such as your dental hygienist wears, may also be advisable.

If you have any questions regarding this subject, please call the Bureau of Animal Health at 617-626-1795.