IP: Anthrax Case Six Steps to Take When Envelope is Opened and the Powder Is Found

[David Farber <dave () farber net>]

Anthrax Case: Six Steps to Take When Envelope is Opened and the Powder Is 
Found
October 17, 2001 (TOKYO) -- Cases involving anthrax are increasing in the 
United States, and so if a suspicious letter is delivered, opened, and 
powder is found in it, here's a list of what to do.
Tsutomu Takeda, study leader for arbovirus, Center for Vector-Borne Disease 
of the University of Rhode Island, cited the following six steps.

1. Close the windows and carefully cover the powder with a large cloth (or 
a jacket) to prevent the powder from stirring. Then leave the room. (If it 
is not possible to cover the powder, there is no need to worry. However, 
when leaving, move slowly and quietly so as not to stir the powder.)
Note: Closing the windows is not to prevent spores from going outside. 
Leaving windows open while opening a door could allow the wind to blow the 
powder.

2. Call the police immediately upon leaving the room. Everyone who was in 
the room should gather in one place and wait for medical personnel to 
arrive. Never send anyone, for instance, to get some clothes. Furthermore, 
any rescuer who was on the scene without a proper outfit, and those who 
were in contact with or near the substance, should follow steps 4-6 below.

3. Those who directly touched the powder or who were nearby should wash 
their hands thoroughly, take off their clothes, and shower right away. (If 
a shower is not available, do not leave, and wait for help).

4. Change your clothes. The clothes that everyone was wearing should be 
placed in one area and later disposed of by following an expert's 
instructions.

5. Never take anything out of the room where the letter was opened. Seal 
off the contaminated area and prohibit access to it.

6. Anyone who was in the room must consult a doctor.
(MedWave)


For archives see: http://lists.elistx.com/archives/interesting-people/