Threat of Biological Weapons: Prophylaxis and Mitigation of Psychological and Social Consequences

• NCJ Number: 191227
• Journal: Journal of the American Medical Association Volume: 278 Issue: 5 Dated: August 6, 1997 Pages: 425-427
• Author(s): Harry C. Holloway M.D.; Ann E. Norwood M.D.; Carol S. Fullerton Ph.D.; Charles C. Engel, Jr. M.D.; Robert J. Ursano M.D.
• Date Published: 1997
• Length: 3 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Issue Overview
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Downloaded October 29, 2001

Annotation

This paper discusses psychophysiological and social implications of biological weapons and recommends developing primary interventions and treatment.

Abstract

Biological weapons emerged as a significant threat in the 1990's. The thought of being infected with the agents is frightening. If an attack occurs, one can anticipate that there will be acute and chronic psychiatric causalities as in other disasters. They psychiatric aftereffect will depend on the nature of and the response to the assault. As the attack is discovered and the media reports the news, exposed and unexposed individuals may experience acute autonomic arousal. Rapid, accurate triage and effective treatment or immunization will be the cornerstones of initial management. An attitude of expectation that those with hyperarousal or demoralization will soon return to normal activities should be conveyed. A well-organized, effective medical response contributes to the creation of a supportive environment and accurate data for the at-risk population. Following a biological terrorist attack, there may be overwhelming demands placed on the medical systems. Quarantine requires the development of a specialized environment that will limit exposure to secondary infections. Additional stressors may arise from the mundane logistical demands associated with managing mass contamination and infection. Disaster responder and medical personnel also will have to contend with their own psychological reactions. Disaster plans for managing a biological attack must be developed and realistic training provide to endure effective response to an actual terrorist event. The training should include the probability of large numbers of psychological casualties. The communication of the risk to individuals following a bacteriological attack will critically affect how communities and individuals respond. Government and private organizations should develop detailed strategies for responding to a biological terrorist attack that include consideration of the psychological and social impact of such an attack. Planning and preparation for biological attacks can diminish the terrorists' ability to achieve their overall goal -- the induction of terror. References