anthrax

noun

Meaning

A serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis, which primarily affects livestock but can be transmitted to humans through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.

Examples

  • Public health officials monitored the farm closely after an outbreak of anthrax was confirmed in the cattle herd.
  • The laboratory technician followed strict safety protocols to prevent accidental exposure to anthrax spores.

Synonyms: disease, infection, pathogen, bacterium