GAINSEVILLE, FL; CHENEY, WA — As anthrax fears increase, researchers are developing systems that can detect or destroy airborne anthrax as well as other pathogenic microbes. These systems could eventually be installed in commercial and government buildings to protect occupants.

According to an engineering professor at the University of Florida, an indoor air-cleaning system has been developed to zap dust mites and mold spores, but the system can also eliminate anthrax. This particular system was tested by using a similar bacteria to anthrax, and was successful in eliminating it. According to the university, these systems could be installed quickly and inexpensively in office and home hvac systems.