6 - Bioterrorism

Abstract

This chapter describes the public health and medical preparedness challenges of bioterrorism preparedness and response. While many bioterrorism disease patterns may be similar to other disasters described in this book, there are some unique characteristics to a bioterrorism response, including coordination with law enforcement. In order to develop planning scenarios, a list of potential bioagents was developed, known as Category A agents. These agents are discussed in detail. Critical to the response to a bioterrorist incident is the early warning through a layered surveillance system of disease monitoring, syndromic surveillance, and environmental testing. Cultivating perceptive providers through training and establishing a robust communications system adds to this layered surveillance. Rapid implementation of control measures and medical countermeasure may be necessary to avoid large scale morbidity and mortality if broad area dispersal methods have been used. Recovery will include returning to safe and sanitized environments and mental and behavioral health support.