Anthrax is now rare in humans in the United States and developed countries. It still occurs today, largely in countries lacking public-health regulations that prevent exposure to infected goats, cattle, sheep, and horses and their products. In the last few years, there have been rare cases of anthrax in people exposed to imported animal hides used to make drums. Drum players, drum makers, and their family members have been infected in this way. The major concern for those of us in western countries (who don't play drums) is the use of anthrax as an agent of biological warfare. Individuals who are at higher risk to become infected with anthrax include

veterinarians,

livestock producers and farmers,

travelers to areas where anthrax is endemic,

handlers of animal products (for example, animal hides),

laboratory personnel that study anthrax, and mail handlers, military personnel, and individuals trained to respond to bioterrorists and/or biological warfare.