Single case of inhalation anthrax
Sadly a Hackney resident has died in hospital following treatment for inhalation anthrax. This is an extremely rare case and this type of anthrax cannot be passed from person to person.
Hackney Council is continuing to work very closely with the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and City and Hackney Primary Care Trust.
The patient concerned made drums using animal skins for a living. It was through making these drums that exposure to and inhalation of anthrax spores on an imported animal hide occurred.
Residents who live in the same building as the patient’s work studio have been informed and reassured that they are not at any risk of infection.
As part of an investigation to identify where the anthrax originated from, the HPA will be carrying out some testing at the patient’s workshop in Hackney.
For further information, visit the Health Protection Agency website or call NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Page updated: 3 Nov 2008