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Critical issues in bioterrorism preparedness: before and after September 2001.
Donald E Brannen1, Sharon A R Stanley
1Community Epidemiologist, Greene, Clinton, and Fayette Counties, Greene County Combined Health District, 360 Wilson Drive, Xenia, OH 45385, USA. dbrannen@gcchd.org
Summary
Ohio health departments faced significant challenges in bioterrorism preparedness and response, particularly after the 2001 anthrax events. Key issues included training, integrated investigations, and developing comprehensive emergency response plans.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Emergency Preparedness
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Survey (BPRS) assessed Ohio local health departments' capacity before the September 11, 2001 attacks.
- Subsequent anthrax incidents highlighted critical gaps in bioterrorism response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the preparedness and response capabilities of Ohio local health departments to bioterrorism events.
- To identify specific issues encountered during the 2001 bioterrorism incidents, including responses to white powder events.
Main Methods:
- Conducted the Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Survey (BPRS) before September 11, 2001.
- Administered the Ohio Response to Bioterrorism 2001 Survey (ORB) to assess responses to suspected anthrax incidents.
- Utilized both surveys as independent measures of preparedness and response outcomes.
Main Results:
- Significant issues identified include monitoring unexplained deaths/symptoms, bioterrorism agent training, and integrating medical-criminal investigations.
- Development of comprehensive bioterrorism emergency response plans, including mass vaccination and treatment strategies, was a critical need.
- Participation in field or tabletop exercises was identified as a key preparedness component.
Conclusions:
- Ohio's local health departments faced substantial challenges in bioterrorism preparedness and response in 2001.
- Addressing identified gaps in training, planning, and inter-agency coordination is crucial for enhancing public health security.
- Findings are supported by national-level studies and simulated attack evaluations.