Who should get vaccinated against anthrax?
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has recommend anthrax vaccination for the following groups:
  • Persons who work directly with the organism in the laboratory
  • Persons who work with imported animal hides or furs in areas where standards are insufficient to prevent exposure to anthrax spores
  • Persons who handle potentially infected animal products in high-incidence areas (incidence is low in the United States, but veterinarians who travel to work in other countries where incidence is higher should consider being vaccinated)
  • Military personnel deployed to areas with high risk for exposure to the organism (as when it is used as a biological warfare weapon)

The anthrax Vaccine Immunization Program in the U.S. Army Surgeon General's Office can be reached at (877) GET-VACC (1-877-438-8222).

Note: Pregnant women should be vaccinated only if absolutely necessary.

Show All Answers

1. What is anthrax?
2. Why has anthrax become a current issue?
3. How common is anthrax, and who can get it?
4. How is anthrax transmitted?
5. What are the symptoms of anthrax?
6. Where is anthrax usually found?
7. Can anthrax be spread from person-to-person?
8. Is there an incubation period for the infection?
9. Is there a way to prevent infection?
10. What is the anthrax vaccine?
11. Who should get vaccinated against anthrax?
12. What is the protocol for anthrax vaccination?
13. Are there adverse reactions to the anthrax vaccine?
14. Should I ask my physician for prophylactic treatment?
15. How is anthrax diagnosed?
16. Is there a treatment for anthrax?
17. If I believe I have been exposed, who should I contact?
18. Where can I get more information about the recent Department of Defense decision to require men and women in the Armed Services to be vaccinated against anthrax?
19. Where can I obtain more information about anthrax?