Local Perspectives on Bioterrorism (original) (raw)
Related papers
2001
The September 11 th attack and subsequent intentional release of anthrax spores via the U.S. postal system have focused policymakers' attention on the preparedness and response capability of the nation's public health system. The anthrax attacks put a tremendous strain on the U. S. public health infrastructure, an infrastructure that many experts argue has been weakened by years of neglect and under-funding. To better understand the preparedness gaps that exist, as well as the disparate functions and agencies that define public health in this country,
Bioterrorism: Are we ready for such health care emergencies
AnV Publication, 2020
Bioterrorism is a planned and deliberate use of pathogenic strains of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or their toxins to spread life-threatening diseases on a mass scale in order to devastate the population of an area. 1 Biological agents are easy to develop as weapons, are more lethal than chemical weapons, are less expensive and more difficult to detect than nuclear weapons. Diseases caused by biological agents are not only public health issue but also a problem of national security. Bioterrorism is a potential public health threat to India. The impact of a biological attack to our nation could be devastating. 2
Bioterrorism and the Emergency Room: Planning for the Unexpected
Stress, trauma, and crisis, 2004
Previously, the threat of bioterrorism was not taken seriously. Today, in the aftermath of 9À11, Americans know this threat can no longer be ignored. The effects of terrorism can be covert and can catch unsuspecting individuals off guard. In the event of an attack, Americans will look to hospital emergency departments as the first responders for all levels of care. Therefore, helping professionals such as physicians, nurses, and social workers employed in these departments must be prepared to assist with formulation and delivery of these plans. This implementation will require quick and accurate assessment and intervention strategies reflecting multiple levels of disaster preparedness. Suggestions are made for how to identify the threat related to bioterrorism and guidelines for plans to address this threat are postulated in an attempt to avoid further crisis and trauma toward all involved. Recommendations for future improvements in service delivery are made.
Bioterrorism and its impact on the emergency department
Clinical Pediatric Emergency Medicine, 2002
With the recent anthrax attacks, bioterrorism has become a reality in the United States. These attacks have changed our understanding of anthrax and the use of bioweapons (BWs). Emergency department staff will be the first line of defense against probable future attacks. It is therefore critical that medical personnel are trained to recognize, respond to, and manage BW attacks. Recognizing a BW attack requires an understanding of the specific signals indicating a possible outbreak, as well as knowledge of the agents that constitute the most likely threat. Responding to an attack involves the proper notification of public health and law enforcement officials, surveillance tools to alert the medical community, and appropriate communication with the public to prevent panic. Managing an attack, in addition to direct treatment of victims, involves hospital defensive actions and effective utihzation of resources and staff. Fundamental to the entire process is appropriate education and training of medical staff. Current data indicates a need for more BWs training to ensure preparedness.
Bioterrorism: An Imminent Public Health Threat
The Internet Journal of Epidemiology, 2009
Bioterrorism is a planned and deliberate use of pathogenic strains of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses or their toxins to spread life-threatening diseases on a mass scale in order to devastate the population of an area. Bioterrorism agents can be separated into three categories, depending on how easily they can be spread and the severity of illness or death they cause. Biological agents can be spread through the air, through water, or in food. Robotic delivery is also possible. Another technique, a nightmare for bioterror experts, is the use of "suicide coughers". To strengthen the area of biodefence, the US senate passed the 'Bioterrorism Act of 2002'. A highly effective public health system should make an important contribution to deter the threat by demonstrably diminishing the result of a potential attack. The strategies against bioterrorism involve prevention of an attack, detecting bioweapons, and quick relief in the event of biowar. The next step is the introduction of Bioterrorism related topics in the medical curriculum, so that the medical students should be encouraged to stay abreast of new developments as they continue their training and begin their practices.