Emergency Preparedness and Response for Anthrax

Emergency Preparedness and Response for Anthrax

Introduction

Bioterrorism may be defined as a terrorism concerning the intentional dissemination or release of biological agents such as bacteria, toxins, or viruses and might be in a human-modified or naturally occurring form (Jernigan et.al, 2001). Anthrax is one of the diseases that may come in the category of bioterrorism, which is an acute disease which is caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. Most forms of the disease are lethal, and it affects both humans and animals. However, there are vaccines are available and local states and government can also play a vital role to overcome any event of bioterrorism.

Discussion

State and local authorities for public health recognized strength in the response to the incidents related to Anthrax of 2001 and also zones for betterment. The authorities stated that their planning ventures had aided to promote a fast and facilitated response, yet they had not thoroughly suspected the extent of coordination that might be required across both private as well as public entities included in the response to the incident of Anthrax. Although, several aspects of their existing reaction plans had been made operational, for instance, by instituting assertions, the perspectives that had not been functioned influenced their capability to organize a fast reaction to the Anthrax incidents (Doolan et.al, 2007).

However, in case of emergency following must be considered,

Wearing protective eyewear and handling all specimens in a BSL-2 laminar flow hood

Avoiding any activity which places them in danger for infectious exposure

Decontaminate laboratory work surfaces after every use with dispose of supplies as well as tools properly

Avoid touching surfaces of mucosal with hands

Remove and dispose gloves earlier than leaving the laboratory

State and local authorities declared that their reactions additionally profited from past encounters, if progressed with practicing their arrangements or ...