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For Release Thursday, 4th
October, 2001
CONTACT: Frank Penela
(850)-245-4111
WEST PALM BEACH, The Florida Department of Health is investigating an isolated case of Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) in a 63-year-old white male in Palm Beach County. Anthrax is very rare in humans and cannot be transmitted from person to person.
Humans can contract one of three forms of Bacillus anthracis: cutaneous (skin), intestinal and respiratory. Preliminary findings indicate that the individual contracted the respiratory form of the disease. This appears to be an isolated incident.
We were able to detect and diagnose this individual case quickly, thanks to our required reporting system, said Department of Health Secretary John O. Agwunobi, M.D., M.B.A. Palm Beach County health officials reacted immediately and appropriately by sending an isolate of bacteria to the state lab for analysis.
Dr. Agwunobi explained that the Department of Health has an ongoing system, by which all infectious diseases are reported to county health departments. This serves as an early warning system for any potential outbreak.
Bacillus anthracis is an age-old bacterium that has caused disease for centuries in the world. Infection comes from contact with anthrax-infected animals or infected animal products. The spores are found widely in soil; therefore, animals that feed on the ground tend to be those most likely infected. These animals usually include cows, sheep and goats.
Most commonly, infected people have been exposed through their work such as farmers, butchers and veterinarians, and those who sort raw wool and tan hides. Doctors can prescribe antibiotics for treatment of the disease. To be effective, treatment should be initiated early. If left untreated, the disease can be fatal.
From the beginning, with the initial diagnosis, Florida officials have been working with the CDC, FBI and local health officials to determine how this disease was contracted and the appropriate response.
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