ISLAMABAD, Oct 19: A suspected anthrax patient was discharged from Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) on Saturday after the initial tests proved negative.

Mohammad Javed, a Pakistani working at the British High Commission was admitted to Pims after making physical contact with the white powder contained in an envelope received in the post on Thursday.

“Yes he was admitted to the hospital last night but we have allowed him to go home since his initial reports are negative,” a doctor told Dawn on condition of anonymity.

Anthrax spreads through bacteria that could affect the skin and develops pustule leading to septicemia. However it could be fatal if the germs are inhaled as it could lead to respiratory failure within 48 hours.

The anthrax could be cured by administrating penicillin or medicines like ciprofloxcin or tetracycline in serious cases.