Public assistance is requested to identify the contents of kitchen storage cans containing white powder donated yesterday, Wednesday, October 24, 2001 to the Salvation Army Thrift Store in Summerside.
Chief Health Officer Dr. Lamont Sweet advised that, although the powder is probably a baking ingredient, the present situation of anthrax being distributed in the United States makes it necessary to take all known precautions to prevent any similar incident from taking place in Prince Edward Island.
An urgent appeal is going out to anyone who donated or knows more about the kitchen canisters received by the Thrift Store. "The donor may know what was in the can and simply overlooked emptying it. Knowing what is in the can would greatly assist us to respond to this situation," Dr. Sweet said.
Anyone who can supply further information or assistance should contact the Public Health Nursing Office in Summerside at 888-8160 or the Summerside Police Department at 432-1201 immediately.
All who came into direct contact with the powder were advised to put their clothing and jewellery in a plastic bag and to shower. The Thrift Store was closed until the powder could be sent out of the province for testing.
"It is emphasized that it is very unlikely that anthrax was in the can," said Dr. Sweet. "Anthrax can present as a chest infection with fever, flu-like symptoms, cough and pneumonia symptoms or as a skin rash with a water blister and a black centre. Anyone in the store yesterday who develops these symptoms should seek medical attention. We are working as quickly as possible to determine whether any bacteria were in the powder. Antibiotics to prevent illness would be provided if any bacteria were found."
Health officials advise that Islanders should use caution when noting any white powder in the mail or when it is not certain what the powder is. In such circumstances, it is advisable for all to leave the area immediately and contact 911, who will notify the proper authorities.