Anthrax

General information

Anthrax is a bacterial illness, caused by Bacillus anthracis, with acute onset characterized by several distinct clinical forms.

Anthrax is not contagious, which means you can’t catch it from another person like the cold or flu.

Anthrax fact sheet, P-42025 (PDF)

Anthrax basics - CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)

Information for providers

This is a Wisconsin disease surveillance category I disease:

• Report IMMEDIATELY by TELEPHONE to the patient's local public health department upon identification of a confirmed or suspected case. The local health department shall then notify the state epidemiologist immediately of any confirmed or suspected cases. Submit a case report within 24 hours electronically through the Wisconsin Electronic Surveillance System (WEDSS), by mail or fax using an Acute and Communicable Disease case report, F-44151 (Word) or by other means.
• Information on communicable disease reporting

Wisconsin case reporting and public health follow-up guidelines

Case Reporting and Investigation Protocol: Anthrax, P-01893 (PDF)

Questions about Anthrax? Contact us!
Phone: 608-267-9003 | Fax: 608-261-4976