NEW: Books about Bioterrorism

Sadly the events of September 11, 2001 and the recent Anthrax cases have reminded us that terrorists can and will use other weapons such as biological agents, chemical agents or even nuclear weapons on unsuspecting innocent people. Knowledge about these agents may help us to understand what we can and can't do to protect ourselves.

1. What are the symptoms of Anthrax?
Anthrax comes in 3 forms: (1) Cutaneous--initially a bump which becomes a blister and then an ulcer (2) Intestinal--nausea, abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea and vomiting of blood (3) Inhalation--cough, breathing problems, shock often leading to death.

2. How is Anthrax transmitted?
Most often anthrax is transmitted from infected animals. However, the anthrax spores could theoretically be used by terrorists. The anthrax spores can survive for hundreds of years but are difficult to deliver in an effective manner. It is not felt that anthrax is transmissible from person to person. Return to Top

3. How is Anthrax treated?
If detected early, anthrax can be treated with antibiotics. Unfortunately persons exposed to Anthrax are unaware of the exposure. Early symptoms may be mistaken for a common cold. Anthrax can be deadly. Return to Top

4. Should I get some antibiotics (such as penicillin or Cipro) from my physician to use if needed?
One might be tempted to have a supply of antibiotics on hand for home use. Most experts feel this is a bad idea for several reasons: (1) there is no clear indicator to start or stop the antibiotics (2) Antibiotics have potential side effects and could be misused (3) stockpiling antibiotics by individuals means that the overall supply could be threatened which would make the antibiotics unavailable for other people with clear cut needs (4) the U.S. Government already has stockpiled antibiotics for use in an emergency and can deliver 50 tons of emergency medications and supplies anywhere in the country within 12 hours. Return to Top

5. Should I get immunized against Anthrax?
Although there IS a vaccine against Anthrax, it is only available in small supplies  for military personnel and is NOT AVAILABLE for civilian use. Full immunization requires 5 shots spaced over 18 months. The U.S. Army claims the vaccine is safe but many people have reported serious side-effects from the vaccine. Return to Top

6. How dangerous is Smallpox?
Smallpox is one of the most feared infectious diseases because it is very contagious, it has a 30% fatality rate and has no current treatment! Vaccines given immediately after an exposure can protect people from future exposures.

7. Should I get immunized against Smallpox?
Smallpox vaccinations in the U.S. were discontinued in 1972. The U.S. Government has a supply of 15 million smallpox vaccinations. These would be used in the event of a smallpox outbreak (along with strict quarantine) to prevent the spread of smallpox.  The vaccine has significant side-effects. If the vaccine were available and were given to the entire U.S. Population, up to 1,000 Americans would be expected to be serious impaired or killed from the vaccine. The vaccine is not available for use except in the case of an actual outbreak within the United States. Return to Top

8. If I received a vaccination for Smallpox over 30 years ago, am I protected?
No one knows if immunizations from over 30 years ago produce significant protection but probably not! In the event of an outbreak of smallpox, most individuals should receive the vaccine. Return to Top

9. Should I take precautions when traveling abroad?
Persons traveling abroad should be concerned about security and about contracting diseases especially tropical diseases such as malaria.  General Travel Advice. Return to Top

10. Should I purchase a gas mask?
Although gas masks are used by trained emergency personnel, most experts feel that gas masks are not beneficial because they are difficult to fit and are impractical to use. Most exposures give no warning--one would need to wear the mask at all times for adequate protection. Gas masks do not fit children. Return to Top

11. Is the water safe?
Although terrorists could poison the water supplies, many precautions are in place to ensure that tap water is safe. Although it is a good idea to keep a supply of bottled water on hand in case of an emergency of any kind (tornado, hurricane, earthquake etc.) it is not necessary to avoid tap water unless requested by local authorities. Return to Top