Definition
Bioterrorism - the deliberate or threatened use of bacteria, viruses or toxins to cause disease, death, disruption or fear.
History
Although the term may be new to many people, bioterrorism is not a new concept. In fact, biological agents have been used as weapons for decades.
- 1300s - Tartars catapult plague-infected corpses over the walls of Kaffe (Crimea), possibly leading to the Black Death plague epidemic that followed.
- 1700s - British soldiers give the American Indians blankets previously used by smallpox patients.
- World War II - Germans use anthrax on the United States soldiers' horses and mules.
- 1940 - Chinese drop ceramic containers holding plague-infected fleas on Manchuria.
- 1984 - Rajneeshee Cult members spray salmonella on salad bars in Oregon, sickening more than 700 people.
Agents
Today the methods used in a bioterrorism attack may be much different, but the biological agents that could be used are much the same. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have listed six Category A Agents, based on how easy they are to obtain, weaponize, and disseminate, and how much death, damage or fear they might cause.
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The Category A Agents are:
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Local Preparedness
Although many people do not believe Hickory County would be a target for a bioterrorist attack, several key agencies are partnering to prepare for a potential attack. These key agencies include:
- Public Health Department
- Office of Emergency Management
- Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
- Law Enforcement
- Fire Protection
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
- School Districts
Active surveillance will alert Health Department officials to a potential outbreak or attack. Emergency plans advise key partners on how to respond. Medication dispensing sites* have been designated and can be opened if there is a need to dispense medication to county residents.
Personal Preparedness
You can join in these preparedness efforts by taking steps today to protect yourself and your family.
- Give blood.
- Live life! Remember, keep the threat of bioterrorism in perspective, and enjoy each day of life.
For more information on bioterrorism, biological agents and bioterrorism preparedness, visit the Southwest Missouri Homeland Security Planning Region D Bioterrorism/Emergency Response Team Web page at www.swmobert.com.
*denotes pdf file
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