Man dies from inhaling anthrax
Drum-maker dies after inhaling anthrax spores
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Monday, 03, Nov 2008 11:11
A man has died after inhaling anthrax spores while handling imported animal skins.
Fernando Gomez, 35, from Hackney in east London, died at Homerton University hospital on Sunday after being in intensive care for over a week.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) confirmed it had launched an investigation to trace where the infected skins originated.
Mr Gomez's flat has been sealed off and his drum-making workshop will be examined later this week.
HPA's chief adviser warned other drum makers of the risk of coming in contact with anthrax.
"We are, however, keen to reiterate to all individuals who make drums from imported animal skins that there is a risk of coming into contact with anthrax and that they should ensure they are aware of this and take precautions to protect themselves when making these drums," he said.
Seven other people who were in the room when the animal skins were prepared have been given antibiotics, although the HPA claims nobody else had developed any symptoms.