MN Officials Release Update On Anthrax Case

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Minnesota health officials are releasing more information about a man who was sickened by inhaling anthrax -- apparently acquired from the natural environment.

The state Department of Health said Friday the man had a prior chronic lung condition that may have made him more susceptible to infection with anthrax.

Officials say the man in his 60s also had multiple exposures to soil and animal products.

The Health Department said earlier this month the man was hospitalized in Minnesota after traveling through several western states where anthrax is known to be in the soil and to have caused infections in animals. He is now recovering.

The FBI investigated because anthrax can be used in terrorism, but found no evidence of a criminal or terrorism act.

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