In 2001, lone wolf terrorist and bioweapons expert Dr. Bruce Ivins, mailed several United States Postal Services (USPS) letters and parcels filled with anthrax spores to news media outlets, democratic senators, and others. This terrorist incident was considered a weapon of mass destruction (WMD) attack, as anthrax is a Tier I biological agent.
For this assignment, you must utilize the CSU Online Library or other reliable sources to research the 2001 anthrax attacks. You will then construct a case study of the incidents in which you accomplish the following at a minimum:
Provide a brief synopsis of the timeline of the incidents.
Discuss the dangers of biological agents. Include how anthrax was utilized as a weapon and the role the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) played in the attack.
Analyze the impact the attacks had on society, the USPS, and homeland security operations.
Summarize first responder response to the attacks. Include what personal protective equipment (PPE) was required.
Summarize technologies that were used in the detection, response and recovery during the attacks.
Explain the role of public communications during and after the attacks.
Identify any change in protocols or policies of the USPS or local, state, or federal government agencies to mitigate future instances of a similar WMD or biological attack.
What technological advances were improved or implemented by the government, USPS or private mailing services as a result of these attacks?
