Information on which to base assessments of risk from environments contaminated with anthrax spores

Abstract

SUMMARY: Although there has been a considerable amount of research conducted intoBacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, the data are widely disseminated in the scientific literature and are therefore not always easy to assimilate. In view of continuing concern about potential anthrax contamination in environmental materials and sites, this review brings together the currently available information relating to the health hazards fromB. anthracis.The relevance of the available information for risk assessment purposes is assessed.