Senators Lott, left, and Daschle stayed on the job.
Last week, the United States fought off fears about a disease called anthrax. A letter containing anthrax bacteria was opened in the office of Senator Tom Daschle, leading the House of Representatives and six Senate and House office buildings to shut down on Wednesday. The Senate remained in session.
| Senators Lott, left, and Daschle stayed on the job. |
Similar letters had been received by some news media companies. Investigators are tracing where the letters came from to find the culprits.
Since the first incident was reported in early October, many Americans have been tested for anthrax exposure. As of Friday, only seven had the disease. On Thursday, Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge assured Americans, "The greatest fear is the fear of the unknown."
Here are answers to common questions about anthrax.
Q What is anthrax?
A It's a disease caused by bacteria that grow in soil. It most often infects sheep, cows and other hoofed animals. Spores—the dormant form of the bacteria—can survive in soil for up to 80 years. Anthrax is very rare in the U.S.
Q How do you catch it?
A There are three ways a person can get anthrax: by inhaling a lot of spores, by eating contaminated meat or by coming into contact with spores through a cut or scratch.
Q Is anthrax contagious?
A No. You must have direct contact with the spores to get the disease.
Q Is anthrax treatable?
A Yes. Antibiotics like Cipro, tetracyclin and penicillin are extremely effective against anthrax. When treated quickly, anthrax can be cured.