Bioterrorism readiness by Randy Nelson, D.O., PAHCS Ever since September 11, 2001, Americans have had an increasing awareness about terrorism. Recently, with the anthrax cases, there has been concern about the possibility for risks to our health. Bioterrorism is a way for these acts to be carried out with the intention of inflicting harm to our health. At Paynesville Area Health Care System, we have developed a bioterrorism readiness plan in case of such an event. This is in conjunction with state and federal information. I would like to stress that almost all of the agents that can affect our health cannot be transmitted person to person. Some of the altered forms may be inhaled and cause lung problems, but are hard to spread. Because there may be many symptoms that are similar to common illnesses, the history is reviewed to determine its possible connection to a bioterrorist agent. Contacts are made with the state if further investigation is warranted. Most illnesses caused by these agents are treatable with antibiotics and would be used if necessary. Some of the possible viral agents can spread more easily, but usually affect non-immune individuals. The necessary precautions would be used in treating these people. Vaccines can also be used if indicated and would only be used if there were confirmed cases or threats. It's important to understand that widespread illness through large populations is unlikely, and that overall, the risk is low for most of the bioterrorist agents. However, be aware and informed of what is happening around you. For more information on bioterrorism and treatments of such cases, check out the Center for Disease Controls' website at www.cdc.gov. Return to Newsletter