Children anthrax

Agents disseminated as weapons might present unique diagnosticandtreatmentchallengesffomthesamenaturally-transmitted conditions. (For example, the anthrax event in the USA in 2001 involved a child < 1 year of age, the first such reported infection in that age group)... 

The chances of your children coming into contact with bacteria that cause anthrax are extremely low. However, if public health officials confirm or suspect that you or your children have come into contact with the bacteria, your doctor or other health official will pre.seribe antibiotics to keep you and your children from developing anthrax. Early identification and ireaiiiieni of anthrax in children i.s critical, so call your health care provider immediately w ith any question.s or concerns. Remember never give your child an antibiotic unless a doctor has examined your child and pre,scribed an antibiotic. Also, be sure to use any antibiotic exactly as directed by the doctor or pharmacy. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics Web site addresses numerous issues related anthrax, bioierrorism, and children. You can access these topics at http //www.aap.org/advocacy/releases. Suggestions for helping children after a disaster are available at the Web site of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at... 

Change fo oral therapy as soon as possible if patient s condition improves. Amoxicillin 500 mg (adult dose) or 80 mgAg (child dose) p.o. t.d.s. if organism is found to be penicillin-sensitive. Additional antibiotics shown to have in vitro activity against anthrax may include rifampicin, vancomycin, gentamicin, chloramphenicol, clindamycin, penicillin, amoxicillin, meropenem or imipenem (depending upon sensitivities). ... 

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