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There are three types of anthrax infection: cutaneous (skin), inhalational (lungs), and gastrointestinal (stomach/intestines). Symptoms and consequences of anthrax infection vary greatly depending on the type of infection. Anthrax most commonly infects warm-blooded animals including sheep, cows, horses, and goats, but can also infect humans. Anthrax infection of animals and humans is extremely rare in the U.S.
The health department, law enforcement agencies (like the FBI and police), and other agencies will investigate any human anthrax case. Doctors and other medical personnel are required by law to call the health department to report any human anthrax infections immediately.
If you have reason to think that you or someone else has been exposed to anthrax spores, call 911. The sooner anthrax is investigated and treated, the more lives will be saved.