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:
- 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.