Bioterrorism involves intentional dissemination of natural or manmade bio-product with intentions to harm; mostly mankind. This kind of terrorism is one of the most severe as its effects can be felt down the generations. In his article “Confronting Biological Threats to the Homeland”, Chertoff cites some steps that could be vital in tackling the tragic attack.
One of the steps and indeed the first step in countering bioterrorism is planning. As Chertoff writes, “Planning must involve an understanding of the full dimensions of a public health emergency—natural or manmade”, (2008). This calls for input of enough funds by the government in researching all the possible bio- emissions by the attacker, possible places to be attacked and the immediate steps that should be taken should the attack be performed. This would ensure that the effects of any bio-emissions will be contained before they are felt wide.
Secondly, the public should be informed and educated about the dangers posed by bioterrorists, how to detect suspects, how to handle any suspicious items and the need to take personal precaution (Banoub, 2010). The information should be put across every member of society and especially persons in attack prone areas. This ensures that the general public is involved in fighting bioterrorism.
The other step that Chertoff cites is early intervention should a case of suspected bio-attack be reported. The public as noted above should be fast in giving the information which should be acted upon first suspicion (Banoub, 2010). This would ensure that, one, any suspect within the area of bio-dissemination is traced and two the attack does not spread. Most of the attacks are spread as a disease thus acting fast would ensure that spreading of the disease is controlled early (2008).
References
Banoub, J., (2010). Detection of Biological Agents for the Prevention of Bioterrorism. The
Netherlands: Springer.
Chertoff, M., (2008). Confronting Biological Threats to the Homeland. Washington: Ndupress
