Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) is a bacterium that infects organisms by sporulation. Bacillus anthracis can be aerobic (requires oxygen) or facultative anaerobic (does not require oxygen). It is also a Gram-positive bacteria found in soil in humid and humid climates (Hicks, 2012). The bacteria is part of the Bacillus Cereus species (Koehler, 2009). It is known to infect life forms in four different ways. The infection can be caused by digestion, by eating food contaminated with the bacteria. Another way is to inhale; which occurs by breathing in the spores. The third route of infection is the cutaneous route, called cutaneous; This infection occurs through open wounds. The most recent form of infection discovered is that by injection; the use of needles (Hicks, 2012). Although this is not common in rich countries; there have been numerous outbreaks in Europe and the United States. This practice is also considered for bioterrorism (Sweeney, 2011). Symptoms of the early stages of anthrax may be misinterpreted as less life-threatening conditions (Hicks, 2012). For patients with possible anthrax infection, this can be determined by positive Gram stain. It can also be diagnosed by confirmatory tests, such as PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) (Sweeney, 2011). PCR focuses on certain strands of DNA for replication and identification of the organism (Genetic, 2014). Anthrax toxin antagonists may be considered for cure; but antibiotic therapy is the most commonly used treatment (Sweeney, 2011). Bacillus anthracis is an elongated, non-motile rod-shaped bacterium that generates dormant spores with or without oxygen. When the spores are exposed to high levels of carbon dioxide and heat, they transform into a middle of paper... four deaths in England and one death in Germany from injected anthrax. Tissue swelling and tissue infection at the injection site occurred between the first and tenth day after injection and were reported in nine out of ten cases. The change in skin color from anthrax is imperceptible because it is similar to injecting heroin. Other reported symptoms are excessive bleeding and edema; if left untreated, the infected person will begin to develop organ failure (Hicks, 2012). In conclusion, Bacillus anthracis is a bacteria that lives in soil. It can infect its hosts in several ways. It can be fatal if not treated with appropriate antibiotics or surgery. Outbreaks are not common, but when they do occur, they are due to vegetative spores released by the bacteria. Anthrax infections can be complicated and symptoms may or may not be noticeable. It may be dangerous.