I never did understand why they would name it that

Cami Walker, resident

"I am embarrassed when I have to say my street name, and it's gotten worse," said Karen Williams, who lives in one of seven homes on the street.

The usual jokes have multiplied following reports of the disease in Florida, New York and Washington, residents told the Associated Press news agency.

Cami Walker is supporting a neighbourhood campaign to rename the street.

She said: "I never did understand why they would name it that."

Records show that Anthrax Street was approved in March 1996 - after many people had built homes there - following a request by surveyor Mike Tate.

Mr Tate told local newspaper The Fayetteville Observer that the name came from the 1980s heavy metal band Anthrax.

Unique and different

He said it was suggested to him by one of his employees.

Although he had never heard of the band or the disease he thought the name was "unique and different".

The local Cumberland County Planning Department accepts any name that is not obscene or too long. It must also be unique so that it can be found quickly.

Mike Osbourn, who oversees the naming process, said: "Basically, we try not to judge anybody's submission."

He said that at least half the property owners must agree before the name can be changed, adding: "I'm sure I can convince seven people."