The Public Health Response

The public health response to bioterrorism is based on practical knowledge. Many state and federal, as well as local, public health organizations have presented seminars and courses on bioterrorism. This activity is ongoing and increasing in light of recent events. Practical knowledge of the possible use of biological agents by terrorists (identification, treatment, prevention) serves as the focus of this activity.

Because bioterrorism can cause ripple effects in any human population, the public health infrastructure is organizing to coordinate, communicate and allocate resources. Three resources, which may be of use to those searching for information on bioterrorism, are:

• "The Control of Communicable Disease Manual," James Chin, editor. American Public Health Association, Washington, D.C., 2000.
• "War and Public Health," B. Levy and V. Sidel, editors. Oxford University Press, New York, 1997.
• "Journal of Public Health Management and Practice - Special Issue on Bioterrorism," July 2000, Vol.6, No. 4.

Craig A. Molgaard, PhD, MPH
Acting Chair and Professor, Department of Preventive Medicine
Executive Director, MPH Kansas
University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita
1010 N. Kansas
Wichita, KS 67214
(316) 293-2627

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