NCJ Number
192346
Journal
U.S. Foreign Policy Agenda Volume: 6 Issue: 3 Dated: November 2001 Pages: 25-28
Date Published
2001
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the current anthrax attacks and the historical context, focusing on the vulnerability of the United States to this type of threat.
Abstract
The Senior Research Associate and Manager of Weapons of Mass Destruction Terrorism Project at the Monterey Institute of International National Studies, states that the United States is vulnerable to terrorism because its borders are generally open to people and goods, and interstate commerce is not regulated. The United States is most vulnerable to bioterrorism due to the deterioration of the public health infrastructure, especially during the last few decades. The United States does not have the means or capacity to cope with a disease outbreak due to the lack of funding, staff, and resources. There are only a limited number of effective international tools against bioterrorism, so that it is crucial that the United States itself be prepared and responsive. Recommendations include increasing funds and resources to the public health system, creating and implementing extensive surveillance, linking health care providers to the Internet and other online sources, upgrading laboratory capabilities, and educating heath care workers to recognize signs and symptoms of suspicious disease outbreaks.