Biological Agents
Procedures to follow in the event of possible exposure to a Biological Agent including Anthrax):
If you open an envelope or package containing a message indicating that you have been exposed to anthrax (a crystalline or powdery substance may not be seen or noticed) do the following:
- Remain calm. Leave the room and deny access to others.
- Immediately close all doors and windows in the room.
- Call 911 and indicate that you have received an anthrax threat. Also let them know if any substance was in the envelope or package and that you possibly have been exposed. (The dispatcher will immediately notify the proper response units). Give the dispatcher your name, telephone number, and location. Remain on the line until you are advised to discontinue your call.
- Move away from the envelope or package and any suspected substance but do not leave the room. Notify your supervisor and ask that the entry to your work area be restricted until response teams arrive.
- If you have been exposed to a powder or other substance do not touch your face or attempt to clean up the desk or counter top. If a sink is available in your work area wash your hands, arms, and face with soap and water.
- Wait for instructions from responders.
If you follow the above procedures and directions of responders your chance of illness is extremely low. There is high probability that this is only a hoax but every precaution will be taken to insure your safety.
About Biological and Chemical Weapons
Biological agents are infectious microbes or toxins used to produce illness or death in people, animals, or plants.
Terrorists may use biological agents to contaminate food or water because they are extremely difficult to detect.
Chemical agents kill or incapacitate people, destroy livestock, or ravage crops.
Some chemical agents are odorless, tasteless, and difficult to detect. They can have an immediate effect (a few seconds to a few minutes) or a delayed effect (several hours to several days).
You may be exposed to a chemical or biological agent in three ways:
- Breathing material.
- Swallowing contaminated food, water, or medication.
- Touching the material or coming into contact with clothing or things that have touched the material.
You could be exposed to chemicals or biological materials even though you may not be able to see or smell anything unusual.
You may be sent to a designated hospital for evaluation. Antibiotics may be recommended until laboratory tests are completed (normally 24 to 72 hours).
You may be decontaminated at the scene by professionals or given an opportunity to shower.
You will be given clean clothing after the shower or decontamination.
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