03/11/2008

Drum Maker Dies After Inhaling Anthrax

A drum maker has died after inhaling anthrax fumes from imported animal skins.

Fernando Gomez, 35, from Hackney, east London, died in the intensive care unit of the Homerton University Hospital. He had been in hospital for more than a week.

Seven other people who may have been in contact with the hides have been treated with antibiotics as a precautionary measure.

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

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."

He added: 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."

A hospital spokesman confirmed Mr Gomez died from inhalation anthrax rather than cutaneous anthrax, which is contracted through the skin.

(JM)

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