Patient selection: symptomatic patient after bio-terrorist attack
Findings suggestive of inhalational anthrax - one or both of the following:
(1) non-headache neurologic symptoms (confusion, loss of consciousness)
(2) chills/fever or cough with one or more of the following:
(2a) dyspnea
(2b) nausea or vomiting
(2c) presence of any finding on lung auscultation
Findings suggestive of a viral respiratory infection - one of the following:
(1) chills/fever or cough with one or both of the following:
(1a) rhinorrhea
(1b) sore throat
(2) absence of chills/fever or cough
A patient matching the findings suggestive of inhalational anthrax should have definitive testing and be started on therapy.
A patient matching the findings of a viral respiratory tract infection should be sent home on prophylactic antibiotics as well as follow-up instructions.
