In the three years since anthrax vaulted from science fiction subplots into one of America’s worst nightmares, interest in ramping up the nation’s ability to diagnose Bacillus anthracis infections has been high. But the uncertainty and fear that followed the double whammy of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and a series of deadly anthrax incidents through the U.S. postal system are being somewhat allayed. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the Quick ELISA blood test in June, allowing for quick and accurate anthrax testing through a local health facility or laboratory.
