| Anthrax
Bacterial disease of animals and humans caused
by contamination with spores; can be used as an agent of bioterrorism.
Antibiotics Medication that kills or slows
the growth of bacteria. Antibiotics are never effective on viruses.
Bacillus anthracis Species of bacteria
that causes anthrax.
Bacteria Simple cellular microorganism
that reproduces by cell division. Some species of bacteria can cause
disease.
Culture Growth of colonies of bacteria
on a nutrient medium.
Cutaneous anthrax Anthrax of the skin
caused by entry of Bacillus anthracis into a wound.
Eschar Ulcer of the skin with a black
crust.
Inhalation anthrax Anthrax in the
lungs caused by breathing in spores.
Prophylaxis A medication or therapy given
to prevent a disease.
Spores An inactive form of bacteria or
other organisms containing material that can reproduce active bacteria. Bacterial
spores are usually much more difficult to kill than active bacteria.
Toxins Poisons that can be manufactured
and released by bacteria inside a sick person's body.
Viruses Very simple subcellular organisms
that can cause diseases. Antibiotics are never effective against viruses,
although many viral diseases can be effectively prevented by
vaccination. |
