Many Vaccine Information Statements are available in Spanish and other languages. 1 What is anthrax? Anthrax is a serious disease that can affect both animals and humans. It is caused by bacteria called Bacillus anthracis. People can get anthrax from contact with infected animals, wool, meat, or hides. Cutaneous anthrax. In its most common form, anthrax is a skin disease that causes skin ulcers...