Modelling the ecological niche of naturally occurring anthrax at global and circumpolar extents using an ensemble modelling framework.

ABSTRACT: Bacillus anthracis, the causative agent of anthrax, is a spore-forming bacterium that primarily affects herbivorous livestock, wildlife and humans exposed to direct contact with infected animal carcasses or products. To date, there are a limited number of studies that have delineated the potential global distribution of anthrax, despite the importance of the disease from both an economic and public health standpoint. This study compiled occurrence data (n = 874) of confirmed human and animal cases from 1954 to 2021 in 94 countries. Using an ensemble ecological niche model framework, we developed updated maps of the global predicted ecological suitability of anthrax to measure relative risk at multiple scales of analysis, including a model for circumpolar regions. Additionally, we produced

SUBMITTER: Deka MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10961590 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature