Which statement regarding anthrax is correct?

Pulmonary anthrax is considered the most deadly form of anthrax due to the severity of respiratory involvement and its rapid progression. When inhaled, anthrax spores can lead to severe respiratory disease, which can result in high mortality rates if not treated promptly. Symptoms may start out resembling common respiratory illnesses but can quickly escalate to severe respiratory distress and systemic infection.

In contrast, other forms of anthrax, such as cutaneous anthrax, while potentially serious, are associated with a significantly lower risk of death when treated appropriately. Gastrointestinal anthrax is also less common and tends to occur more frequently in areas where people consume contaminated meat. Furthermore, anthrax is treatable with antibiotics, particularly when treatment begins early, making the assertion that anthrax cannot be treated with antibiotics incorrect. Understanding these differences is crucial for recognizing the risks and management strategies associated with each form of anthrax.