What are CDC s recommendations for protecting mail handlers?
CDC and the US Postal Service are collaborating to ensure that all mail handlers and postal workers are protected against exposure to anthrax. Detailed guidelines may be found on these Web Sites: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/DocumentsApp/Anthrax/10312001/han51.asp http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5043a6.htm Sources How long do anthrax spores live? What is the importance of knowing the genetic information about anthrax? Does the similarity in strains from Florida, New York, and Washington, D.C. mean that they came from the same source or are these just the most common strains? How long do anthrax spores live? Anthrax spores can survive for decades in soil. What is the importance of knowing the genetic information about anthrax? Genetic information about B. anthracis, particularly to determine genetic similarity among strains, is an important part of a disease investigation, but it is not immediately required for taking action to prevent or treat anthrax in those who may have been exp