What is the recommended duration for post-exposure prophylaxis after inhalational anthrax exposure?

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The main idea is that post-exposure antibiotics must cover the entire potential incubation period after inhalational anthrax exposure. Bacillus anthracis spores can persist and later germinate, causing disease even if initial exposure is treated. Because the incubation period for inhalational anthrax can extend up to about two months, a 60-day course of antibiotics is recommended to ensure that any spores that germinate are kept in check during that window. Starting treatment as soon as exposure is identified helps prevent progression to clinical disease. Shorter durations (like 30 days or 7 days) would not adequately cover the full incubation period, and a longer duration (90 days) is not typically required for standard exposure. The 60-day duration reflects balancing effective protection with minimizing unnecessary antibiotic exposure.