[e-drug] Literature review on anthrax (cont'd)

[Steve Toovey <toovey@travelclinic.co.za>]

E-drug: Literature review on anthrax (cont'd)
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The problem with relying on vaccination alone for prophylaxis is
that available data in non-human primates shows protection only
after two doses. Human data is restricted only to the standard three
dose regime (0,2, and 4 weeks). This leaves the first 30 days post
exposure unprotected if no antibiotic is given.

Even assuming that there is adequate protection from a single dose
of vaccine, antibiotic prophylaxis is still indicated, as data from the
Sverdlovsk incident revealed the development of clinical inhalational
anthrax cases as soon as 2 days after exposure.

In the absence of adequate vaccine supplies, antibiotics are
indicated for 60 days to ensure protection. If vaccine is available
and administered, then antibiotics are still indicated, but can be
stopped at 30 days post exposure. 

Dr Stephen Toovey
SAA-Netcare Travel Clinics
American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 
certified in Clinical Tropical Medicine and Travellers' Health
Aviation Medical Examiner
toovey@travelclinic.co.za
http://www.travelclinic.co.za
http://www.malaria.co.za
P O Box 786692
Sandton
2146
South Africa
Fax: +27-11-883-6152


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