February 3, 2003
Bio-agent fact sheets help residents
fight fear with facts

In keeping with Fort Worth's effort to keep its residents prepared for a
disaster, a new series of information is being introduced.

Beginning this month, Fort Worth residents will receive information about
bioterrorism in their water bills. The information defines bioterrorism and
explains that while unlikely, the threat of biological weapons still
remains. Residents will also receive information about how they can educate
themselves with new biological agent fact sheets

"Our philosophy is that an educated public will be our best ally in the
fight against public health threats such as bioterrorism," explained Jason
Lamers, spokesperson for the Fort Worth Public Health Department. "Our
intent is first, to prepare residents for any possible biological threat;
and second, to reduce fear and eliminate false information in the event of an
emergency."

The fact sheets address six biological agents that, according to the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), pose the greatest threat to the
public (Anthrax, Smallpox, Tularemia, Plague, Botulism and Viral Hemorrhagic
Fever). While many fact sheets are filled with medical jargon, the Fort
Worth fact sheets provide residents with easy-to-read information.

In preparation for a potential threat, a store of fact sheets will be
stocked for quick distribution. Again, these fact sheets are designed with the
intent of informing residents for a potential threat and increasing
understanding if such a threat is confirmed.

To view these fact sheets and to learn more about how to prepare yourself
for any threat, visit the Fort Worth Public Health Department online at:

<http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=532870&s=63353858 www.fortworthgov.org/health<
http://rd.bcentral.com/?ID=532871&s=63353858.

If you don't have Internet access, call (817) 871-7237 to find out how to
get a copy of the fact sheets.