Anthrax is a rare, but potentially fatal condition caused by infection with a particular type of bacterium called Bacillus anthracis.  Normally, the spores of this bacterium reside in the soil and infect only grazing animals.  These could thrive in wild animals or cattle and livestock; the latter are the usual sources of infection in human beings. 

What are the signs and symptoms of anthrax

There may be three manifestations of anthrax in humans:

Cutaneous: skin infection can cause blisters that may ulcerate, and are usually found on face, neck, hands and legs

Respiratory: lung infection through inhalation of spores can lead to fever, shortness of breath, cough and extreme tiredness

Gastrointestinal: stomach and gut infection can lead to fever, cramps, bloody vomiting, bloody diarrhea, swelling of abdomen, enlarged lymph glands and sore throat