The infection control practitioner and bioterrorism: threats, planning, preparedness

Abstract

Bioterrorism has emerged as a key public health issue in the 21st century that presents unique challenges to the infection control practitioner (ICP). Numerous published papers, protocols and guidelines have focused on the serious public health threat posed by the deliberate release of agents such as anthrax and smallpox. However, planning and preparedness within facilities remains at best variable throughout the country, with few additional resources being made available to support training and preparedness initiatives. The key to achieving the best health outcome in a bioterrorism event depends on having a plan that will facilitate the rapid identification and treatment of affected and potentially exposed people, appropriate containment, and robust communication mechanisms between clinical, public health services and the community. The ICP will provide essential support and direction to containment activities in facilities and will be an important resource in managing potentially exposed healthcare workers (HCWs) and communication with public health colleagues. To achieve this, the ICP must understand the specific nature of the health threat and participate in the preparation and testing of comprehensive plans to manage the health threat within the facility.