Bioterrorism Information

Since the terrorist attacks, there have been an increased number of requests for information from members of the campus community about a wide range of bioterrorism preparedness issues. To help respond to these inquiries, we have provided answers to frequently asked questions below, as well as some useful resources.

University Health Services clinical staff is well trained to quickly adapt their diagnostic skills to identify emerging diseases. UHS regularly works in concert with state and local public health departments to manage infectious disease and will continue to work closely with city, state and federal resources to provide the best service to the campus.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

1. What is bioterrorism?

Bioterrorism is defined as intentional release of infectious biological agents, or germs, to cause illness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a bioterrorism section which has been active and functioning for over a year.

2. What is anthrax and where can I get the anthrax vaccine?

Anthrax is an acute infectious disease caused by spore-forming bacteria. In humans it is a rare disease usually associated with persons who have contact with dead animals or animal products such as wool, hair or hides as a result of their occupations. It can be spread through breathing in anthrax spores, through the skin when the skin comes into contact with infected animal products or contaminated soil, or through ingesting contaminated undercooked meat. Inhaled anthrax is very rare with only 18 confirmed cases from 1900-1976. The cases identified in Fall 2001 were the only known inhaled anthrax case in the last 25 years in the US.

Anthrax is not transmitted from person to person. Those who come in into contact with persons sick from anthrax cannot acquire the disease.

Anthrax vaccine is not available except to members of the military. Anthrax vaccine requires six injections over an 18-month period with periodic boosters and appears to be about 93% effective. At this time public health officials do not recommend routine vaccinations of civilians with anthrax vaccine.

3. What is smallpox and where can I get the smallpox vaccine?

Smallpox is a contagious viral infection spread by direct person-to-person contact. Smallpox was certified by the World Health Organization to have been eradicated from the planet. The last known case of smallpox occurred in Somalia in 1977. Symptoms include fever, aches, vomiting and a distinctive rash. Although there is no treatment, vaccination after exposure can be helpful and decrease the spread of the disease.

The United States maintains an emergency stockpile of smallpox vaccine. Smallpox vaccine is supplied only to certain laboratory workers who are at risk for smallpox viruses as a result of their occupation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is not allowed to release smallpox vaccine to any other person for any reason. In the absence of a confirmed case of smallpox anywhere in the world, there is no need to be vaccinated against smallpox.

4. I was vaccinated against smallpox before 1980, am I still protected?

Persons who have been vaccinated probably have limited, if any, antibody protection against this disease. If it were determined that recent exposure to smallpox occurred, revaccination would be recommended.

The CDC has plans to assist with a swift response to protect the public if vaccination should become indicated based on the evaluation of the benefits and risks.

5. Should my doctor prescribe preventive antibiotics against anthrax, plague or other bioterrorist threat?

No unusual illnesses or deaths suggestive of bioterrorism have been reported in California. Therefore, preventive antibiotics are not needed at this time for anthrax, plague or any other bioterrorist threat, and public health officials recommend against prescribing them. Inappropriate use of antibiotics can lead to unnecessary harmful side effects, the development of antibiotic resistant organisms, and a false sense of protection.

The CDC has stockpiled critical antibiotics and other vaccines ready for local distribution to affected populations within hours.

6. Should I buy a gas mask?

In order to be effective, personal protective equipment must be properly fitted and appropriate to the threat. Gas masks would only provide protection if worn at the time of a known release. Unless a mask was worn all the time, which is impractical, it would not protect against the covert release of biological agents. Public Health officials are not recommending people purchase gas masks at this time. In the event of a chemical threat, the public would be instructed to stay home or be evacuated from areas of possible exposure. Members of the public not already in an affected area would be prevented from entering any areas of potential exposure.

7. Is the water supply safe?

Methods already in place to filter and clean the drinking water supply are considered effective against most biological agents. Chlorine, for example, protects drinking water from other water-borne bacteria and would neutralize most biological agents.

8. Is there anything that I can do to prepare for a possible bioterrorist threat?

• Consistent with long standing guidelines on disaster preparedness (e.g. earthquakes), individuals should plan to provide necessities for a 3-4 day period in the event that you need to remain inside your residence for your safety.
• Keep alert to any suspicious activity and report it to local authorities. Do not open letters or packages that look suspicious. See United States Postal Service information regarding identification of suspicious mail.
• Donate blood.
• Take care of yourself. See Taking Care of Ourselves (in pdf format) for more information.

9. What if my fears are having a serious impact on my family or work life?

After the World Trade Center attacks it is reasonable for people to feel anxious about their personal safety. If your fear grows to the point where it stops you from doing the things you would normally do, it might be helpful to talk with a professional counselor.

Bioterrorism:

• Centers for Disease Control: Public Health Emergency Response

Suspicious Mail:

• United States Postal Service information regarding identification of suspicious mail.