FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2000
Contact: Mark Horton, M.D., MSPH
(714) 834- 3122
Hildy Meyers, MD
(714) 834-8024
BIOLOGIC AGENTS IDENTIFIED
The purpose of this communication is
to confirm that two bacteria were identified among the
biological materials removed from the Irvine home of Dr.
Larry Ford. As we have stated in the past, there is absolutely
no indication of any threat to public health. The organisms,
which were found in extremely poor condition, were identified
as Salmonella typhi and Vibrio cholerae. While both organisms
are rare in the United States, they have been responsible
for epidemics, particularly in developing countries, where
hygiene and medical care are deficient.
Both organisms are listed by the CDC as potential agents
in a biological attack. Neither is among those in the
most dangerous category. There is no evidence to suggest
that these materials were being used to prepare a biological
weapon.
No other bacterial agents have been identified. Additional
materials from the Biofem facility are still in the process
of being evaluated by the FBI and the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention.
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