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Medical Spending for the 2001 Anthrax Letter Attacks
Nicholas A Zacchia1, Ketra Schmitt2
11University of British Columbia,Vancouver,British Columbia,Canada.
Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
|November 13, 2018
Summary
The 2001 anthrax attacks cost approximately $177 million in medical expenses. The highest costs were from the "worried well" seeking unnecessary prophylaxis, highlighting a key area for future disaster cost mitigation.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Economics
Background:
- The 2001 anthrax letter attacks in the US prompted significant public health responses and medical expenditures.
- Understanding these costs is crucial for preparedness and response planning for future bioterrorist events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the total medical costs associated with the 2001 US anthrax letter attacks.
- To inform policy decisions aimed at mitigating the economic impact of similar bioterrorist incidents.
Main Methods:
- Review of journal publications and news reports to determine exposure, illness, and treatment numbers.
- Utilized available cost data and developed cost estimates from literature for a comprehensive cost model.
Main Results:
- Total medical spending reached approximately $177 million.
- The largest cost driver was self-initiated prophylaxis by individuals not actually exposed (the "worried well").
Conclusions:
- The significant cost associated with the "worried well" presents a critical area for intervention in future public health emergencies.
- Effective strategies to manage public anxiety and direct resources appropriately are essential for reducing economic burdens during bioterrorism events.
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