MBTA releases bacteria in biological detection test

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. (WHDH) -- The MBTA and the Department of Homeland Security teamed up to test sensors designed to detect a biological terror attack.

Beginning last night, T officials released harmless bacteria into the subway system to test the sensors' response time, in case there is a real attack.

The bacteria are a kind of aerosol spray.

MBTA officials ran initial tests using the spray and the sensors earlier this year.

According to the Herald, testing is being done on the Red Line, at Davis, Porter and Harvard Square stations.

Transit police want to assure people that the dead bacteria used in the test will not hurt anyone.

Even in its live form, the bacteria are simply used as fungicide.

The testing is not dangerous to people in any way.