Three Nicholls math instructors await the results of their anthrax tests, taken last Wednesday when all three experienced “cold-like” symptoms after receiving packages from Washington, D.C. The packages, which were expected by the instructors, were opened in Peltier Hall offices. The offices, two upstairs, one on the first floor, were sealed until 11:30 a.m. Thursday.

“When all three faculty members reported having cold-like symptoms, State Police were called to the campus as dictated by established University protocol,” Michael Delaune, director of University Relations, said.

“As a precautionary measure, the three were also sent to local hospitals for medical testing.”

A hazardous materials team picked up the packages for testing.

Since the offices were cleared and no powdery substances were found in the packages, neither State Police nor the University think there is any danger of anthrax on campus.

“We are confident that there is not a hazardous situation on the Nicholls campus, but we will continue to respond to similar situations when called,” Troop C Commander Ralph Mitchell said.

Delaune expressed similar thoughts.

“We have no reason to believe that this represents anything more than a string of coincidences, but certainly this is no time to take chances,” he said.

“In light of the situation in the world today, we would prefer to err on the side of caution. As always, we will do whatever it takes to keep the family of students, faculty and staff on this campus safe.”