Immediate Action In Case of Suspected Anthrax Delivery
Information for identifying suspect packages and actions that should be taken if it is suspected exposure to anthrax may have occurred.
Delivery Methods - Effective dispersal of anthrax is difficult due to the fact that the bacteria cannot survive exposure to ultraviolet light or direct moisture. The preferred method of delivery is through letters or packages opened by unsuspecting personnel. Anthrax delivered in this manner most often resembles a white, dry, fine, powdery substance.
Identifying Suspect Parcels - Similar to the procedures for suspected explosive devices, pay attention to the appearance, wrapping, addressing, postage, or any other irregularities of the parcel. Was the parcel expected? Do you know the sender? If not, and you feel the item is "suspect," then contact your supervisor and appropriate security personnel for further action.
If You Open a Parcel and Encounter an Unidentified Substance:
* Do not panic.
* Do not touch, smell, taste, or try to analyze the substance.
* Carefully place the item on your desk and step away. Do not disturb the substance. Leave it where it is.
* Alert others to keep away from the area.
* Remain in the immediate area to minimize the spread of contamination.
* Notify the proper authorities.
* Turn off any circulating fans, air conditioners, or heaters.
* Wash your hands, face, and arms with soap and cold water.
* Wait for trained medical and decontamination personnel to arrive.
* Inform 911 of the situation, regardless of your location.
Anthrax spores infect only if inhaled, ingested, or introduced into an open wound or the eyes. Even if exposure does occur, the victim is not contagious and the condition is treatable with antibiotics if identified early.
Information for identifying suspect packages and actions that should be taken if it is suspected exposure to anthrax may have occurred.
Delivery Methods - Effective dispersal of anthrax is difficult due to the fact that the bacteria cannot survive exposure to ultraviolet light or direct moisture. The preferred method of delivery is through letters or packages opened by unsuspecting personnel. Anthrax delivered in this manner most often resembles a white, dry, fine, powdery substance.
Identifying Suspect Parcels - Similar to the procedures for suspected explosive devices, pay attention to the appearance, wrapping, addressing, postage, or any other irregularities of the parcel. Was the parcel expected? Do you know the sender? If not, and you feel the item is "suspect," then contact your supervisor and appropriate security personnel for further action.
If You Open a Parcel and Encounter an Unidentified Substance:
* Do not panic.
* Do not touch, smell, taste, or try to analyze the substance.
* Carefully place the item on your desk and step away. Do not disturb the substance. Leave it where it is.
* Alert others to keep away from the area.
* Remain in the immediate area to minimize the spread of contamination.
* Notify the proper authorities.
* Turn off any circulating fans, air conditioners, or heaters.
* Wash your hands, face, and arms with soap and cold water.
* Wait for trained medical and decontamination personnel to arrive.
* Inform 911 of the situation, regardless of your location.
Anthrax spores infect only if inhaled, ingested, or introduced into an open wound or the eyes. Even if exposure does occur, the victim is not contagious and the condition is treatable with antibiotics if identified early.
