Anthrax Cases Remain Rare in Europe

According to the updated Annual Antrax Epidemiological Report, this rare Zoonotic disease continues to be detected in humans in Europe.

From 2018 to 2021, EU/EEA countries reported 11 confirmed cases.

However, for 2022, the Republic of Croatia reported seventeen anthrax cases (eight confirmed, nine probable), Romania reported three cases, and Spain reported two. And there were no fatalities in any of these countries.

The large outbreak of anthrax in cattle in Croatia was associated with human cases.

All confirmed cases for which information was provided presented with cutaneous anthrax (N=4) after exposure to farm animals (N=3) and were domestically acquired (N=4). 

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) stated on January 22, 2025, that spore-forming bacteria cause anthrax and is not spread from person to person. 

The most at-risk populations for developing anthrax are those who are in close contact with animals and potentially contaminated animal products and those who live in endemic areas.

The ECDC says vaccines against anthrax are available and are approved in some EU/EEA countries. Guidelines recommend vaccination for people at risk, such as veterinarians, abattoir workers, those working with animal hides or furs, laboratory workers, and armed forces members in areas with a high risk of exposure.

In addition to pre-exposure prophylaxis with vaccines, the anthrax vaccine is also recommended for post-exposure prophylaxis.

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration approved the anthrax vaccine (Emergent BioSolutions, CYFENDUS™), recommended for most adults at risk of exposure to anthrax bacteria.

It is also recommended for unvaccinated people of all ages who have been exposed to anthrax. These people should get three doses of anthrax vaccine together with recommended antibiotic drugs.

In the U.S., anthrax vaccines are not generally available at pharmacies.