Resources

While there have been only a small number of actual cases of biological and chemical terrorism reported nationwide, there have been many questions. The following are some brief fact sheets about some of the most prominent biological agents.

Anthrax
Botulism
Plague
Smallpox

Suspicious Mail

The likelihood of receiving a package or letter containing suspicious substances is remote. However, it is important for everyone to be aware of characteristics that are common to suspicious packages and how to handle suspicious packages.

Indicators of suspicious mail
What should I do if I receive a suspect envelope/package?
What should I do if I receive something identified/marked as threats, powder or suspicious content?
What should I do I get something marked with a threatening message such as "Anthrax?"
What should I do if I open a letter that appears empty with a threatening message?
What should I do if I get an envelope with powder?

Useful Links

South Dakota State Department of Health
   http://www.state.sd.us/doh/Bioterrorism/bio.htm#News

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
   http://www.bt.cdc.gov/

Johns Hopkins University Schools of Medicine & Public Health
   http://www.hopkins-biodefense.org/

Senator Bill Frist, MD, R-Tenn, has an overview of anthrax and bioterrorism with an excellent list of links.
Senator Bill Frist, MD
   (http://frist.senate.gov/issues.cfm/hurl/code=bioterror)

U.S. Department of Defense’s Anthrax Site
   http://www.anthrax.osd.mil/

Center for Infectious Disease and Research (CIDRAP)
   http://www.cidrap.umn.edu