Anthrax vaccines

Ann Saudi Med. 2005 Mar-Apr;25(2):143-9. doi: 10.5144/0256-4947.2005.143.

Abstract

Anthrax, an uncommon disease in humans, is caused by a large bacterium, Bacillus anthracis. The risk of inhalation infection is the main indication for anthrax vaccination. Pre-exposure vaccination is provided by an acellular vaccine (anthrax vaccine adsorbed or AVA), which contains anthrax toxin elements and results in protective immunity after 3 to 6 doses. Anthrax vaccine precipitated (AVP) is administered at primovaccination in 3 doses with a booster dose after 6 months. To evoke and maintain protective immunity, it is necessary to administer a booster dose once at 12 months. In Russia, live spore vaccine (STI) has been used in a two-dose schedule. Current anthrax vaccines show considerable local and general reactogenicity (erythema, induration, soreness, fever). Serious adverse reactions occur in about 1% of vaccinations. New second-generation vaccines in current research programs include recombinant live vaccines and recombinant sub-unit vaccines.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting Systems
  • Animals
  • Anthrax / prevention & control
  • Anthrax Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Anthrax Vaccines / adverse effects
  • Anthrax Vaccines / immunology
  • Bioterrorism
  • Humans
  • Immunization, Secondary
  • United States

Substances

  • Anthrax Vaccines