An anthrax vaccine is available for protection against the bacteria that cause the disease (Bacillus anthracis). The vaccine is only recommended for high-risk populations, such as people who work directly with anthrax in the laboratory. Health experts currently do not recommend the anthrax vaccine for general use by the public because anthrax illness is rare, and in some cases, the vaccine can have adverse side effects.

• People who work directly with anthrax in the laboratory
   
• People who handle potentially infected animal products in a high-incidence area, such as slaughterhouse workers or livestock handlers
   
• Veterinarians who travel to work in countries where anthrax occurs more frequently
   
• People who work with imported animal hides or furs in areas where standards are insufficient to prevent exposure to anthrax spores
   
• Military personnel deployed to areas with a high risk for exposure to anthrax.