Are we prepared for a deliberate release of a biological agent?

Following the events of 11 September 2001 in New York, planning for the deliberate release of chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear agents has intensified in the UK, with Department of Health recommendations for National Health Service and public health action. A consequence of this was to assess preparedness across the West Midlands region of England for mounting an effective response to a deliberate release of a biological agent.

Descriptive study.

West Midlands, UK. This work involved key organizations and entailed obtaining information from those responsible for and likely to be involved in managing incidents via questionnaire surveys based around preparedness and planning arrangements.

Findings revealed that plans delineating action to take during an incident do exist. However, staff training (40%) in acute trusts and testing of plans in primary care trusts (45%) could be improved. Communication arrangements in hospitals require support.

Work is ongoing but there is more to do. Trusts should provide staff training and engage in exercises to test plans and communication arrangements.