Anthrax found in Kansas City post office

Anthrax spores were found at a post office in Kansas City, Missouri that handled mail from Washington DC, local officials said last night.

Since September 11th, there have been 21 billion pieces of mail processed in this country - and only three were contaminated Kansas City post office manager Mr Gary Stone

Missouri is the fifth state where anthrax bacteria has been found following the outbreak of the anthrax scare October 5th in Florida. Four people have died from pulmonary anthrax in Florida, Washington and New York.

No postal workers at the Stamp Fulfillment Services, where stamps are canceled for stamp collectors, have shown signs of anthrax infection, Missouri health officials said.

The facility's manager, Mr Gary Stone, said there was no threat to the public, since the postal center does not process regular mail.

He tried to play down the anthrax scare: "It's important to remember (that) since September 11, there have been 21 billion pieces of mail processed in this country - and only three were contaminated."

AFP