0920-0572 Anthrax General Fact Sheet

Form Approved
OMB Control No.: 0920-0572
Expiration date: 08/31/2021

ATTACHMENT 8:
ANTHRAX GENERAL FACT SHEET

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Antibiotics Can Prevent Anthrax
You may have come in contact with anthrax. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends
that anyone who may have come in contact with anthrax take antibiotics for up to 60 days. Anthrax can be deadly.
Taking antibiotics reduces your chance of getting anthrax.

Early symptoms of anthrax may look like the flu — fever, cough, nausea,
or vomiting. These symptoms can quickly get worse.
If you suddenly develop any of these symptoms, get emergency medical care:
*Confusion
*Dizziness

*Trouble breathing
*Blurred vision

*Convulsions or Seizures
*Severe stomach pain

Take antibiotics to prevent anthrax
• You will be given antibiotics for free.
• You will be given the antibiotic that is right for you, based on your medical history. All recommended antibiotics
offer the same protection against anthrax.
• Take antibiotics even if you don’t feel sick. Antibiotics prevent you from getting sick with anthrax.

Keep taking your antibiotics
Take the antibiotics as directed and finish all the pills given to you, even if you do not feel sick. If you stop
taking them early, any anthrax remaining in your body can start to grow, making you sick.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, and then continue to take the medication on schedule.

Be aware of possible side effects
Antibiotics can cause some side effects. Serious side effects from antibiotics, such as severe allergic reactions, are rare.
Keep taking your antibiotics, even if you have mild side effects like upset stomach, mild diarrhea, or headache.
If you have any of these serious side effects, get medical care immediately:
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, face, hands, or feet

• A rash all over your body

• Trouble breathing, shortness of breath, or throat closing up

• Fast heartbeat

• Pain when you swallow

• Seizures, fits, or fainting

Taking antibiotics with some medications can make one or both medications less effective. Talk to a healthcare
provider if you have questions about how these antibiotics might affect other medications.
For additional information, contact CDC at 1-800-232-4636 (1-800-CDC-INFO) or visit www.cdc.gov/anthrax.

Your state health department
information

CS313335-D