Yes, it is possible to survive anthrax. Anthrax is a serious, but treatable, bacterial infection caused by Bacillus anthracis. While the infection can be fatal, most people who contract anthrax and receive prompt medical treatment can survive.
Anthrax can be contracted in three different ways: through skin contact (cutaneous anthrax), by breathing in the bacteria (inhalation anthrax) or by eating contaminated food (gastrointestinal anthrax). Cutaneous anthrax is the most common form of the infection and is caused by a break in the skin that allows the bacteria to enter the body. Symptoms of cutaneous anthrax include a raised, itchy, red bump that eventually becomes an ulcer with a black center.
Inhalation anthrax is the most serious form of the infection and is caused by breathing in anthrax spores. Symptoms of inhalation anthrax include difficulty breathing, chest pain, fever, and nausea. If left untreated, inhalation anthrax can be fatal.
Gastrointestinal anthrax is the least common form of the infection and is caused by eating contaminated food. Symptoms of gastrointestinal anthrax include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, gastrointestinal anthrax can also be fatal.
Most people who contract anthrax and receive prompt medical treatment can survive. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, such as ciprofloxacin or doxycycline, which can be taken orally or intravenously. It is important to note that these antibiotics must be taken for 60 days to ensure the infection is completely eradicated. In some cases, additional treatments such as vaccines or antitoxin injections may be necessary.
In conclusion, while anthrax can be fatal, most people who contract the infection and receive prompt medical treatment can survive. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in some cases, additional treatments such as vaccines or antitoxin injections may be necessary.