Anthrax
How to Reduce Your Risk
The bioterrorism attacks in 2001 made many people understandably afraid to open their mail. However, you can take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to anthrax.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Health Canada have established methods for dealing with suspicious mail. If you receive a piece of mail that looks unusual, contains a powdery substance, or somehow seems suspicious, the CDC and Health Canada recommend that you:
- Carefully and immediately lay the piece of mail on the nearest flat surface, leave the room, wash your hands with soap and water, and call 911 to find out what to do next.
- Do not attempt to inspect the suspicious piece of mail by bringing it near your face to view or smell.
- Do not carry the piece of mail around your office or home to show others.
- Do not place the piece of mail in a plastic bag or other container as previously suggested by federal officials. This may cause a disturbance of anthrax spores in the piece of mail and potentially unleash spores into the air.
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| Author: | Carrie Henley Sabra L. Katz-Wise | Last Updated: September 25, 2006 |
| Medical Review: | Renée M. Crichlow, MD - Family Medicine Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine W. David Colby IV, MSc, MD, FRCPC - Infectious Disease | |
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| Topic Contents | |
| Topic Overview | |
| Frequently Asked Questions | |
| When To Call a Doctor | |
| Symptoms | |
| Exams and Tests | |
| Treatment Overview | |
| Prevention | |
 | How to Reduce Your Risk |
| Other Places To Get Help | |
| References | |
| Credits | |