Bioterrorism: How prepared are we?

Abstract

Bioterrorism is defined as the overt or covert dispensing of disease pathogens by individuals, groups or governments for the expressed purpose of causing harm for their ideological, political, or financial gains. Centre for Disease Control, Atlanta, USA classifies bioterrorism agents/ diseases into three broad categories i.e., Category A, B and C types depending upon the severity of these agents. The global strategic plan to combat bioterrorism is based on the following five focus areas, with each area integrating training and research- Preparedness and Prevention, Detection and Surveillance, Diagnosis and Characterisation of biological agents, Responses and Communication system. Though India has established a National Institute for Disaster Management in 2003, it has no agenda specifically directed for bioterrorism and its mitigation. Early detection and control of biological attack depends on a strong and flexible public health and animal health system at local, state and national levels. Combating bioterrorism will require capitalising on advances in technology, information system and medical and veterinary sciences.