NCJ Number
191174
Date Published
2001
Length
100 pages
Annotation
This document examines research, preparedness, and coordination activities among Federal agencies and departments to deal with bioterrorism.
Abstract
Bioterrorism is the threat or intentional release of biological agents for the purpose of influencing the conduct of government or intimidating or coercing a civilian population. The release of an agent may not be recognized for several days, in which time a communicable agent could spread to others who were not initially exposed. An attack could bring about a mass panic, with public health care providers the first to see victims. A variety of Federal research and preparedness activities related to public health and the medical consequences of a bioterrorist attack are under way. Research is focusing on various biological agents that could be used as weapons, detection of such agents, development of vaccines, and performance standards for emergency response equipment. Preparedness activities include increasing State and local response capabilities, improving Federal response capacity, developing response teams, increasing the availability of medical treatments, participating in and sponsoring exercises, aiding victims, and providing support at public events. Some activities have a dual use, being not only relevant for bioterrorism but also for other types of terrorism, emergencies, and infectious disease surveillance. Federal agencies use a variety of methods to coordinate their activities to combat terrorism. They are developing interagency response plans and entering into a variety of formal agreements to share resources and capabilities. However, coordination of Federal terrorism research, preparedness, and response programs is fragmented. Several different agencies are responsible for various coordinated functions, which limits accountability and hinders unity of effort. Several agencies have not been included in bioterrorism-related policy and response planning. Programs to provide assistance to State and local governments are similar and potentially duplicative. However, the Office of Management and Budget and the National Security council have created a process to reduce overlap and improve coordination. Some Federal programs have begun to provide funding to State and local governments to improve preparedness. Appendices of biological agents and pathogens mentioned in the report; Federal terrorism policies; duties of various Federal departments that could be related to the mitigation of bioterrorism; and comments from departments. Tables, and abbreviations