Anthrax case linked to animal skins

The man, from Hackney, east London, is in intensive care at the Homerton University Hospital, London.

The Health Protection Agency (HPA) said the man's flat in Hackney was sealed off for examination and his workshop, which is also in the borough, will be checked next week.

Seven other people who had been in the room where the skins were prepared have been given antibiotics as a precautionary measure. The HPA said nobody else had developed any symptoms.

Professor Nigel Lightfoot, the HPA's chief adviser, said: "We have stressed to all residents throughout this incident that there is no risk to their health as a result of the case of anthrax, or the testing that will be carried out.

"The patient's property is currently secured and there is no-one living there.

"If this testing reveals the presence of anthrax spores then this information will be communicated to local residents and specialist cleaning will be carried out to remove any trace of anthrax from the property.

"It is important to stress that it is the making of animal skin drums that is the risk for coming into contact with anthrax rather than playing or handling drums.

"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."

The team examining the properties wear protective clothing and use a tent to prevent the potential transfer of bacteria.