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Connecticut Emergency Drill Tests Response To Possible Anthrax Attack

STAMFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- A deadly poison, a population at risk.

Six cities and towns across Connecticut will hold emergency drills Thursday. The exercise focuses on the response to a possible anthrax attack.

Stamford Mayor David Martin says in his city, people will be at the high schools for the mass dispensing of oral antibiotics should this emergency ever occur.

"We are going to have volunteers pretending to be citizens that are in need of this drug to treat the disease and make certain that we know what we're doing," Martin told WCBS 880's Fran Schneidau.

One key question is how quickly can local health officials act in case of such an emergency.

"The drugs that would be used to treat anthrax would be shipped from the state to the local municipalities," Martin said. "They have to be received by the local municipalities, and then you have to set up procedures such that the citizens can actually get the drugs."

Martin said these drills are essential since they highlight the weaknesses as well as the strengths.

"Then you figure out how you're going to do better so in case there is an emergency you're going to be prepared to respond," Martin said.

Bridgeport, Mansfield, New Haven, Torrington and Wallingford are also participating in the drill.

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