A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs
or other biological substances that can make you sick.
Many agents must be inhaled, enter through a cut in
the skin or be eaten to make you sick. Some biological
agents, such as anthrax, do not cause contagious diseases.
Others, like the smallpox virus, can result in diseases
you can catch from other people.
If
There is a Biological Threat
Unlike
an explosion, a biological attack may or may not
be immediately obvious. While it is possible that
you will 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?
You may have trouble getting through,
or the telephone system may be down altogether,
but be patient.
Protect
Yourself
If you become aware of an unusual
and suspicious release of an unknown substance nearby,
it doesn't hurt to protect yourself. Quickly get away.
Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that
can filter the air but still allow breathing. Examples
include two to three layers of cotton such as a t-shirt,
handkerchief or towel. Otherwise, several layers of
tissue or paper towels may help. Wash with soap and
water and contact authorities.
Symptoms
and Hygiene
At the time of a declared biological
emergency, if a family member becomes sick, it is
important to be suspicious. Do not automatically assume,
however, that you should go to a hospital emergency
room or that any illness is the result of the biological
attack. Symptoms of many common illnesses may overlap.
Use common sense, practice good hygiene and cleanliness
to avoid spreading germs, and seek medical advice.
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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:
