Let me be clear at the outset. I don't set policy. I make vaccines. And I am totally committed to providing the very best protection possible against the threat of anthrax. BioPort has worked closely with the FDA to license and manufacture a quality vaccine and we're working closely with the DoD to build and test a stockpile of vaccine that meets their important force protection requirements.
Anthrax is a very real threat that is virtually always fatal.
As a result, anthrax is by far the most likely bioweapon we will face as we move into the new millennium. First, Michigan had a long and outstanding history as one of the leading vaccine developers in the country. Last but by no means least, the Michigan Department of Public Health was willing to work on a vaccine that would protect people against anthrax at a time when no one else would. We stepped up to the plate when we were needed, and worked in tandem with scientists from Fort Detrick and the Public Health Service to develop an improved, safe and more highly effective anthrax vaccine during the years 1965-1970. The anthrax vaccine was first licensed by the FDA in 1970.