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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2001

Just as 31 Senate staff members tested positive for anthrax and the House ordered an unprecedented closure due to the threat, Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson asked Congress for $1.2 billion to stockpile emergency antibiotics and vaccines.

The request came as investigators tried to pinpoint the source of the letter sent to Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.). So far, 26 members of his staff and three of Sen. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.), whose office is next door, have tested positive.

Additionally, New York Gov. George Pataki yesterday said there was a likelihood his office in Manhattan has been exposed to anthrax. NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw received anthrax power in a letter sent to his Manhattan office, infecting one with a treatable skin version.

Despite government attempts to assure the public, there is criticism of unreliable information being passed amid the scare. Just as in the first days after September 11's attacks, rumors -- such as House Speaker Dennis Hastert's (R-Ill.) claim of anthrax in the House's air system -- appear to be heightening fears.

Get the Story:
Thompson Seeks $1.2 Billion for Pharmaceutical Stockpile (The Washington Post 10/18)
31 Exposed to Anthrax on Capitol Hill; House Shuts Down; Senate Offices Close (The Washington Post 10/18)
U.S. Seeks to Boost Security, Soothe Public (The Washington Post 10/18)
Government's Anthrax Muddle: Many Voices, Few Facts (The Washington Post 10/18)
Tests Find 31 Workers Exposed to Anthrax in Capitol (The New York Times 10/18)
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Relevant Links:
Anthrax Vaccine Immunization Program, Department of Defense - http://www.anthrax.osd.mil

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