In Case of Biological Attack

Unlike an explosion, a biological attack may or may not be immediately obvious.

While it is possible to see signs of a biological attack, as was sometimes the case with the anthrax mailings, it is perhaps more likely that local health care workers will report a pattern of unusual illness, or there will be a wave of sick people seeking emergency medical attention.

You will probably learn of the danger through an emergency radio or TV broadcast, or some other signal used in your community. You might get a telephone call, or emergency response workers may come to your door.

In the event of a biological attack, public health officials may not immediately be able to provide information on what you should do. It will take time to determine exactly what the illness is, how it should be treated, and who is in danger. However, you should watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet for official news including the following:

• Are you in the group or area authorities consider in danger?
• What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?
• Are medications or vaccines being distributed?
• Where?
• Who should get them?
• Where should you seek emergency medical care if you become sick?