Anthrax Vaccines


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Anthrax vaccines are vaccines used to prevent or protect against the infectious disease anthrax. This vaccine has been licensed in the United States since 1970.

Brand Name of Anthrax Vaccines
  • BioThrax® (anthrax vaccine adsorbed; AVA)
  • Manufacturer: BioPort Corporation
  • Licensure Date: 1970
About Anthrax

Anthrax is an infection that is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Though this bacteria is most commonly found in wild and domestic mammals, it also occurs in humans. The infection occurs when humans are exposed to infected animals, tissue or hides from infected animals, or when they are directly exposed to the bacteria. There are three forms of Anthrax infection:

    Anthrax Vaccine
  • Cutaneous: This produces a skin infection.
  • Inhalational:This is the most serious type of anthrax infection, can lead to deaths and results from the inhalation of the spore form of the bacterium.
  • Gastrointestinal in rare cases:Ingestion of the contaminated food or water produces gastrointestinal anthrax.
Who Should Get Anthrax Vaccine?
  • People 18 to 65 years of age who are at occupational risk of exposure to anthrax bacteria or spores.
  • Veterinarians
  • Livestock handlers
  • Laboratory workers
  • Military personnel etc.


Anthrax Vaccine Dose

When this vaccine is given as a prevention before exposure, the standard schedule is of 6 doses administered just under the skin. After the first dose, additional doses of vaccine are given at 2nd and 4th weeks. This is followed by doses 6, 12, and 18 months later, which are the booster doses. Finally, to maintain prolonged immunity, an annual booster dose is recommended. In case of those who may have already been exposed, they will receive a three-dose course with doses separated by two weeks.

Not Recommended For
  • People who have recovered from an anthrax infection.
  • People who developed a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of anthrax vaccine or any other vaccines.
  • Pregnant women
  • People under 18 or over 65 years of age
  • People who are moderately or severely ill.

Side Effects of Anthrax Vaccines

The side effects cause by this vaccines are mild reactions like

  • Redness
  • Soreness
  • Lumps
  • Itching
  • Swelling at the injection site.
  • Other reactions can be
  • Headaches
  • Joint and muscles aches
  • Nausea
  • Chills or
  • Fever after vaccination.

These symptoms usually go away after a few days.

Disclaimer: The above information is for general understanding of the visitor. Please consult a registered medical practitioner before taking the aforesaid medicine.


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