Comparing The Common Cold, Flu And Inhalation Anthrax

BINGHAMTON, NY - During the winter months people may become sick with many different illnesses that may have similar symptoms, often referred to as "flu-like". Individuals may be concerned about recognizing inhalation anthrax infection caused by bio-terrorism because the symptoms can be similar to other influenza-like illnesses. There are currently no cases of inhalation anthrax in Upstate New York. The Centers for Disease Control has evaluated 10 cases of bio-terrorism related inhalation anthrax and provided information about symptoms that can differentiate between these various illnesses. Nasal congestion and sneezing were present in only one case of inhalation anthrax while it is a frequent symptom in both the common cold and influenza. Researchers did note that nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal symptoms and profuse sweating were present in all inhalation anthrax cases. These are symptoms not usually associated with either the common cold or influenza infection. A chest x-ray in a patient with bio-terrorism related inhalation anthrax is more likely to be abnormal while influenza-like illnesses do not generally produce symptoms associated with an abnormal chest x-ray.

The suspicion of inhalation anthrax is much greater in areas where anthrax has been identified. There have been no positive results from the more than 1000 environmental samples tested from Upstate New York. A consideration of anthrax infection would be given to individuals in certain occupations that have a history of bio-terrorist related anthrax exposure such as postal workers, laboratory workers, and those handling mail for government officials and media outlets. However for an individual suffering from influenza-like illness in Broome County, it is much more likely that a naturally acquired virus rather than an intentionally introduced biological agent caused the symptoms.

There is no rapid screening test to diagnose inhalation anthrax. Nasal swabs are not used to diagnose individual infection. They are used to identify the site or source of an anthrax exposure. Results from a nasal swab have no relation to whether or not an individual is infected with anthrax. There is a rapid test to diagnose influenza. A medical provider may chose to perform this test if there has been a credible threat of exposure to intentionally released anthrax.

The following chart can provide a comparison of the symptoms of the common cold, influenza and inhalation anthrax.

CHART: Comparing the Common Cold (Upper Respiratory Infection URI), Flu and Inhalation Anthrax

CONTACT:
Diane O'Hora, Supervising Public Health Educator,
Broome County Health Department, 607.778.3921
email: dohora@co.broome.ny.us

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