Anthrax is a rare but serious infectious disease caused by the spore-forming bacterium Bacillus anthracis. It primarily affects livestock and wild animals, but can also infect humans through contact with infected animals, contaminated animal products, or directly through inhalation or ingestion of spores. Anthrax can manifest in three forms: cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalation, each with distinct symptoms and varying degrees of severity.