Anthrax: A Disease of Man and Animals

Anthrax is a neglected zoonotic disease transmissible from animals to humans caused by Bacillus anthracis. The disease affects all vertebrate animals including human. Environmental factors play major role in epidemiology of anthrax. The disease is more prevalent in tropical countries compared to temperate countries. The disease is endemic in India due to several factors like climate, animal husbandry practices, lack of public awareness, etc.,. There are few concerted efforts to document the disease processes, diagnosis and vaccines. Considering the importance of disease, an attempt was made to provide latest information covering, history, agent, epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical spectrum, diagnosis, vaccines, prevention and control and future perspectives.