Anthrax is a naturally occurring bacteria that can live for long periods in a spore form. Cattle are the normal anthrax victims, but mankind has been subject to anthrax infections for hundreds of years. In recent weeks anthrax sent in the mail has resulted in a number of people being contaminated, several have tested positive for anthrax infection and three people have reportedly died from the effects of anthrax infection. These serious cases of criminal or domestic terrorism are serious however: It is very unlikely that Redondo Beach will be the site of Anthrax terrorism Anthrax infection is curable and can be treated by a doctor, with antibiotics If one has reason to believe that one has been exposed to anthrax and has flu/fever symptoms, see your health care provider immediately Keep Zip-Lock plastic bags in your mail sorting area for suspicious mail If one receives a letter of concern, but there are no threats or powder-like material apparent Place the letter in a plastic bag Dispose of it in the trash If one receives a letter of concern and suspicious material and/or a terrorist threat, Place the letter in a plastic bag Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water Call 911 Anthrax links Business Mailrooms and Home Mail handling procedures, An Official CDC Health Advisory http://www.phppo.cdc.gov/han/documents/OfficialCDCHealthAdvisoryOct122001.pdf Anthrax Question and Answer, US Department of Health and Human Services http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2001pres/20011010a.html Anthrax Information Site, Federal Center for Disease Control (CDC) http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/anthrax_g.htm Anthrax Information Links, CDC http://www.bt.cdc.gov/Agent/Anthrax/Anthrax.asp Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response, LA County, Dept. of Health Services http://www.labt.org/