Infectious diseases pose many mysteries, including at least one for drummers (as explained by the WorldWideDrums web site):
Can I get Anthrax from playing African or Djembe Drums?
The risk of acquiring anthrax from an animal hide drum is very low. Of 236 cases of anthrax reported to CDC from 1955 through 1999, only one case of cutaneous anthrax was associated with a goat hide bongo drum purchased in Haiti.
Dave Brooks has a more complete guide to the question, including a guide from the Centers for Disease Control.