1) Anthrax is caused by B. anthracis and is found all over the world.

2) Anthrax spores can live in soil for decades.

3) When animals graze, they can ingest the spores and contract the disease.

4) Anyone who handles the remains or eats the flesh can get either the cutaneous or digestive versions of the disease.

5) The cutaneous cases are the most mild and are often not treated. The person rarely ever contracts anthrax again.

6) The most serious condition results from inhaling at least 8,000 of the extremely small spores.

7) 8,000 can fit on the head of a pin.

8) Antibiotics should be taken as soon as possible after inhaling spores.

9) Anthrax kills by creating a toxin.

10) The Chinese use an antitoxin

11) Heating or cooking will not kill anthrax spores.

12) The spores are killed by sunlight, ultraviolet light, or chlorine bleach.