The sources behind the first days of the anthrax attacks: what can practitioners learn?

Although the possibility of terrorist attacks on the United States has been appreciated for decades, since September 11 and the anthrax scare, the nation has now entered into an "Age of Terrorism." Hardly a day passes without hearing about the "War in Iraq" or "Threats on our Homeland." It's those stories from the networks to nationally circulated newspapers that have informed almost all of America where the War on Terrorism may strike next. Yet, many of these news stories often offer more fear than fact. The anthrax episode was a good example of how faulty information can create danger in and of itself. There is no doubt that during a crisis, such as the anthrax attacks, communications must occur. One of the first tasks a public relations professional must perform is to provide accurate and timely information. Failure to communicate is one of the biggest mistakes you can make in a crisis situation.