First Large-Scale Bio-Terror Exercise Test to New York City

NEW YORK - The first large-scale test of New York City's bio-terror plans will be exercised on June 1-2 when more than 1,200 federal, state and local players assemble for a realistic training exercise.

The New York scenario will involve a simulated terrorist dissemination of a biological warfare agent at an outdoor event in Queens or Brooklyn. The New York officials will work with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga., from the Strategic National Stockpile Program.

The program is designed to supplement or re-supply state and local health agencies in the event of a terrorist or other emergency. The exercise is code-named POD-EX, for "points of distribution," and will involve many sites for distribution of anti-toxins.