Washington (SmartAboutHealth) - There has been a confirmed case of anthrax in the state of New Hampshire, sparking a great deal of fear among citizens in the state and surrounding areas.

The confirmed case of gastrointestinal anthrax was announced by Dr. Jose Montero, the New Hampshire State Public Health Director.

Dr. Montero announced that the woman was a resident of Stafford County, and has been sick throughout the month of December.

After going through a series of tests, it was diagnosed that she did indeed have a confirmed case of the potentially fatal illness.

Reports state that the anthrax virus may have made it into the country via an African drum.

The drum was used by the woman at an event at the University of New Hampshire recently.

There have also been two other cases of anthrax recently in surrounding states.

Health officials in New Hampshire continue to state that citizens are not at risk.