Anthrax Facts

What you should know about anthrax exposure in our community

ANTHRAX IS ON OUR MINDS

We know that anthrax has been delivered through the mail. Although anthrax has typically been delivered to high-profile people or organizations, knowing what to look for may put you at ease.

Here are some common-sense tips to help identify suspicious packages:

• Oily stains or discoloration on wrapping

• No return address

• Excessive postage

• Strange odor

• Misspelled words or incorrect address (addressed to title only) and badly typed or handwritten

• Restrictive markings - "confidential" or "personal"

• Oddly shaped

TAKE PRECAUTIONS, BUT DON’T PANIC

Being "Ready to Respond" means that you take steps NOW to prepare yourself and your friends, your family, neighbors and co-workers for any kind of disaster.

Know the facts about anthrax, and you will be Ready to Respond!

Sedgwick County, in consultation with federal authorities, agrees that the threat of anthrax infection in our community is minimal. But, we know that preparedness is the best prevention - so take steps now to be Ready to Respond.

NEED-TO-KNOW FACTS ABOUT ANTHRAX

What is anthrax? 

Anthrax is an acute, infectious disease caused by spores of bacteria called bacillus anthracis. It occurs naturally and can also be man-made.

What are the symptoms of anthrax infection?

If infected with anthrax, flu-like symptoms will appear within 1 to 7 days; common signs are fever, fatigue, cough and general weakness, followed by chest pain and severe respiratory distress.

What is the treatment for anthrax?

Antibiotics are effective to treat anthrax, especially if diagnosed early. Untreated anthrax infection can be fatal.

Is anthrax contagious?

Anthrax cannot be spread from one person to another.

What can I do to keep from getting anthrax?

Protect yourself - wear disposable gloves in situations where you might encounter unknown substances. Wash your hands often, using soap and hot water.

THINGS YOU DON’T NEED TO DO...

Don’t buy gas masks or other specialized equipment...

Gas masks are only fully effective when worn at all the time. They must be correctly filtered to work properly.

Don’t change your regular and routine tasks...

In Sedgwick County our risk of anthrax exposure is minimal.  Changing your everyday routine is not necessary.

Don’t be afraid to leave your house...

It’s not uncommon to feel scared and threatened. However, you should seek professional help if fear is affecting your everyday life; call the local Crisis Help Line at 263-3770 for 24-hour assistance.

Don’t stockpile antibiotics or other medication...

County health agencies are planning now for possible antibiotic needs. You don’t need to stock up - just be sure to have the proper medications in your Family Disaster Kit.

For more information:

Call Sedgwick County Emergency Management, (316) 660-5959
Call COMCARE of Sedgwick County, (316) 660-7540 or the Crisis Help Line, (316) 660-7500