Terrorism Resources

Anthrax Aftercare Instructions

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Name of patient _____________________________ Date _____________________

Name of physician ___________________________

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PATIENTS ALLEGEDLY EXPOSED TO ANTHRAX

You were evaluated today in the Emergency Department at _____________________________________ for alleged exposure to anthrax. Anthrax is a type of bacteria found throughout the world that usually infects cattle, sheep, horses, and goats. Up until recently, anthrax rarely caused disease in humans in the US. In the majority of alleged exposures to anthrax, the risk of actually being exposed to anthrax is very small. Because humans are relatively resistant to anthrax, even if you are exposed, the risk of actually developing anthrax disease is also small. Anthrax cannot be spread from person to person, so your family and friends are not at risk from you.

1. As a precaution, you received the following laboratory tests (usually none are done)

2. You are also being given the following prescription for antibiotic medication, which you should take over the next _____ days

3. If we kept your belongings as part of an environmental investigation, then _______________ will call you in 7-10 days to inform you about the status of your belongings. If you have any questions, then you may call _____________________ at _________________.

4. You should follow-up with your private physician in 2-3 days to check the results of your laboratory tests (if any were done) and to determine your need for further antibiotics. Please take this form with you. Your private physician may call ________________ at ___________________to determine the status of the environmental investigation related to your alleged exposure to anthrax. If you do not have a private physician, then you should call the following physician or clinic for an appointment.

Name ___________________________________ Phone number ___________________

5. As a final precaution, you should see your private physician or return to the Emergency Department immediately for either of the following:

New rapidly worsening dry cough, difficulty breathing, fever, chills, weakness - typically severe and beginning 1-2 days after exposure

New skin ulcer with a black center surrounded by swelling - typically appearing on areas of your body not normally covered by clothing (hands, feet, face, and neck) and beginning within days to one week after exposure