Bioterrorism Preparedness Program

Anthrax Information and Advisories

If you have been exposed to a suspect powder

Some frequently asked questions
from the Rhode Island Department of Health

1. The police/hazmat left with the package/envelope that contained powder. Now what should I do?

If you can close off the room where the package/envelope was opened until the substance has been tested, that is the easiest thing to do. If possible, turn off all heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and all fans in that room in order to limit airborne exposure. Step out of your shoes and outer clothing at the door and shut them inside too. Or place your outer clothes into a plastic bag and seal it until the test results are available. If you have not done so, wash your face and hands with warm water and soap.

2. The envelope with the suspect powder was in a room we need to use. How do we make it safe?

To decontaminate an area contaminated by suspect powder safely requires special equipment, protective clothing and HEPA filter masks. There are three companies in the area that decontaminate rooms/offices/buildings.Clean Harbors (401) 461-1300
Cyn Environmental (401) 942-3555
Fleet Environmental (401) 431-9514

For safety reasons, the Rhode Island Department of Health recommends that cleanups of suspect powder be done by professionals.

3. The police/hazmat took an unopened package/envelope. What should I do?

If there was no suspect powder, you and your family and employees were not exposed. Since it was a strange item, it is probably a good idea for anyone who came in contact with the it to wash their hands and other exposed skin and to wash down any surfaces the package touched with a solution of 10% bleach (use gloves). Things that can’t be washed can be bagged or sealed with plastic and tape until the assessment of the package is completed.

4. The police/hazmat came but didn’t take my package/envelope or sample the unusual powder I found. What should I do?

If they did not take a sample for further testing, the police or hazmat team decided that your package or envelope or powder in an unusual place was risk-free. If you still have concerns, call the Department of Health Information Line at 1-800-942-7434.

5. Are all specimens collected tested?

No, the FBI screens materials and determines if a threat exists and only forwards the threatening materials.

6. When will I know if the sample was positive or negative? How will I find out?

The sample takes from two to four days to process through the Health Department. The Health Department reports their findings to the Police Department that took the sample and the agency or business where the sample was taken. If the police took your name, they should notify you when the testing process is complete. If they didn’t get your name, check with the same police department that took the sample. Test results, identified by city and date of collection, are also posted on the Department of Health’s web site: www.health.ri.gov.

7. The police took my ring/cash register/ other object as part of the sample. How can I get it back?

All objects sent to the Department of Health for testing are available for the police to pick up a few days after the testing is completed. If your property is evidence in a police matter, they may need to retain it in an evidence locker until the case is settled. Otherwise, you should be able to make arrangements with the police department to have your property returned. All material submitted to the Health Department is treated as evidence. We can not release it to an individual, business or corporation.

8. I had powder all over me and now that the police left, I’m worried.

After you have removed all your clothing and sealed them in a plastic bag and taken a shower, call the Department of Health Family Health Information Line at 1-800-942-7434 and explain what happened. The person who answers the phone will connect you to a physician or specially trained public health nurse who can assess your situation and explain your risks. Or call your own physician.

9. Do I need to take antibiotics?

The physician or public health nurse will cover this in their discussion.

10. I have lots of questions.

For information concerning exposures to suspect substances or about anthrax, call the Department of Health Family Health Information Line at 1-800-942-7434. The counselors who answer are trained to take your questions. The Department’s website: www.health.ri.gov also contains considerable information.

11. When is the Information Line open?

Currently there is someone answering the information line from 8:30 A.M. to 7 P.M. on workdays. On weekends, someone checks for messages frequently and returns the calls. Off hours, a voice mail message gives an after-hours number for emergencies. You can also leave a message and a good time to call you back during the day.

12. What is my risk of exposure to anthrax?

Thus far, all known anthrax exposures are confirmed at internationally known media corporations, one well-known corporation and mail facilities in Florida, New York, New Jersey, Nevada and the Washington, DC area. Unless you are in a building that fits one of these descriptions, you are probably safe. However, it is recommended that the public remain vigilant and report to the police any strange mail or packages, opened packages or mail that have powder when they shouldn’t—or powder found where it should not be in commercial establishments.