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Anthrax is a disease that has a long history, beginning on a farm with animals that supply wool. Anthrax can be contracted by handling the wool, and inhaling the spores from dried animal feces.
The pulmonary form of anthrax is the most virulent, but the hardest to contract. Pulmonary anthrax requires inhalation of a large number of spores (8,000 - 20,000) into the lung’s alveoli. Particles that remain in the nose are not likely to cause disease. Incubation is typically one to five days. The disease begins with flu-like symptoms, and progresses to acute respiratory distress when blood vessels break down in the lungs.
If you suspect you have inhaled a suspicious powder, go immediately to the nearest emergency department.
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