Some, I hope, have recognized this as a variant of the "Klingerman Virus" hoax which first terrorized email users in May 2000 (see "This One'll Kill You!"). Instead of a blue envelope, we must now watch out for a blue package; instead of a deadly virus, the enclosed sponge is now supposedly impregnated with a "lethal substance."  In spite of the facelift, it's essentially the same tall tale. The revised version began circulating in January 2001.

With an alleged 11 deaths and 25 hospitalized as a result of this mysterious blue package, you'd think there'd be coverage of these crimes in northern New Jersey newspapers — indeed, in newspapers nationwide. But there's nothing to be found. This is just a bit of scarelore whipping up unnecessary fear.

Yes, miscreants do on occasion send bombs or other deadly materials through the mail to other people, but it's a rare and hardly random style of assault. Should we be suspicious and careful of strange, unsolicited packages arriving by mail?  Sure, it's better to be safe than sorry. But unless you have mortal enemies or happen to be on the mailing list of a murderous madman, I wouldn't suggest spending too much time fretting over what might arrive in your mailbox. Life is too short as it is.

Sources and further reading:

This One'll Kill You!
Earlier version of this hoax: the "Klingerman Virus"

False Email Report About 'Klingerman Virus'
Centers for Disease Control press release, May 17, 2000

False 'Klingerman Virus' Email Rumor
U.S. Postal Service press release, May 25, 2000

Florida: Hoax Causes Neighborhood Evacuation
Associated Press, May 23, 2000

Maine: Auburn Resident Victim of Hoax
Lewiston Sun Journal, June 22, 2000

The Snail Mail That'll Kill You
Wired News takes note of the hoax's resurgence, Jan. 16, 2001

Email Health Rumors
Recent Internet medical scares

Current Netlore
Recent Features