Persistence in time: the hunt for <i>Bacillus anthracis</i> at a historic tannery site in Austria reveals genetic diversity thought extinct

<i>Bacillus anthracis</i> is a continuing threat from a One Health perspective since it leads to severe infections in animals and humans. Ongoing climate change or human activities can reactivate historical <i>B. anthracis</i> loci, previously considered inactive or forgotten. Therefore, knowledge of historic anthrax incidents at abandoned animal processing facilities, such as tanneries or farmyards, along with robust detection protocols, is of prime interest when monitoring this important zoonosis. As shown here, archival records of possible origins of anthrax-contaminated goods received at tanneries are valuable sources and support these efforts. Investigation for viable spores at such historical sites could not only provide new insights into the past genetic diversity and population structure of <i>B. anthracis</i> but also provide important information for taking appropriate measures to prevent future outbreaks originating from these sites.