The role of doctors in bioterrorism response
By Andy Oppenheimer
1 May 2006
Unlike other forms of conventional attack, if a deliberate release of deadly microorganisms occurs, it is unlikely to be an immediate emergency. Rather than the emergency services having to deal with deaths and injuries at a terrorist incident, doctors will be the first to detect disease caused by a covert act of biological terrorism and their actions will be crucial in the medical response to such an attack. Pharmacists are also in the front line of seeing the first victims with symptoms, while other healthcare workers, such as hospital emergency room staff and laboratory workers analysing test results, will also be vital in identifying the cause and treating victims where possible.
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1 May 2006
Unlike other forms of conventional attack, if a deliberate release of deadly microorganisms occurs, it is unlikely to be an immediate emergency. Rather than the emergency services having to deal with deaths and injuries at a terrorist incident, doctors will be the first to detect disease caused by a covert act of biological terrorism and their actions will be crucial in the medical response to such an attack. Pharmacists are also in the front line of seeing the first victims with symptoms, while other healthcare workers, such as hospital emergency room staff and laboratory workers analysing test results, will also be vital in identifying the cause and treating victims where possible.
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