Human anthrax infections primarily occur through contact with infected animals, carcasses or contaminated animal products. Over 95% of cases are cutaneous anthrax, caused by handling infected tissues—such as skin, hair or meat—from sick or suddenly deceased animals. The public must avoid consuming or handling meat of unknown origin, emergency-slaughtered animals or those that died unexpectedly. Occupational risks are high for veterinarians, farmers and workers in meat, leather or wool industries; these groups should always use protective clothing, gloves and personal protective equipment (PPE) to minimize exposure.

In healthcare settings, enhanced screening is critical in known anthrax-risk areas. Upon suspecting a case, immediate infection control measures are essential: isolate patients in private rooms, use PPE (gloves, fluid-resistant gowns) during care and manage wound drainage with disposable dressings treated as infectious waste. Hand hygiene is paramount: use soap and water (as alcohol-based sanitizers are less effective against spores) and follow WHO’s "Five Moments" protocol. For contaminated areas, implement rigorous cleaning and disinfection to eliminate spores.

Prophylactic antibiotic treatment is vital for those exposed to anthrax spores, requiring strict adherence to full courses as prescribed. Human vaccines are limited and reserved for high-risk occupational groups. International travelers to endemic regions should heed regulations on importing prohibited animal products to avoid unintentional spread.

Animal control measures are equally crucial: routine vaccination, rapid diagnostic testing, quarantine of infected herds and proper disposal of carcasses (burial or incineration, not dissection, to prevent spore formation). The public should report sudden animal illnesses or deaths to veterinary authorities immediately to curb outbreaks.

Anthrax poses significant risks to both human and animal health, but proactive measures—including personal protection, healthcare vigilance, antibiotic prophylaxis and robust animal disease management—may mitigate its impact. Collaboration between public health, veterinary sectors and at-risk communities is key to preventing transmission, ensuring timely interventions, and safeguarding global health.