A review of epidemiological characteristics, risk factors, and prevention strategies of human anthrax in China

Abstract

Anthrax is a severe infectious illness triggered by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. This bacterium is naturally found in soil and mainly impacts domestic and wild animals. Human anthrax infection occurs primarily through close occupational contact with infected livestock. Anthrax has been reported each year in China for decades since it became a reportable disease. However, concerns about anthrax are growing in recent years. In this paper, we reviewed the literature on Anthrax and Bacillus anthracis. We delineated the epidemiological traits of human anthrax in China as well as the potential risk factors for outbreaks. Additionally, we offer recommendations for prevention and control. We emphasize that effective management of anthrax in humans largely depends on the successful control of the disease in animals. It is also suggested that anthrax is unlikely to completely disappear or escalate into a large-scale epidemic in China in the near future. Human cases of anthrax are expected to remain at a low prevalence, which alleviates the need for excessive panic. Instead, proactive measures should be implemented to enhance the prevention and control of anthrax, ultimately leading to further improvements in public health.