The Strategic Plan for Preparedness and Response to Bioterrorism in Korea.
10.3961/jpmph.2008.41.4.209
- Author:
Hyun Soon HWANG
1
Author Information
1. Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ministry for Health, Welfare and Family Affairs, Korea. hyunsoon@mw.go.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article ; English Abstract
- Keywords:
Bioterrorism;
Surveillance system;
Education
- MeSH:
Anti-Infective Agents/supply & distribution;
Bacteria;
*Bioterrorism;
Disaster Planning/legislation & jurisprudence/*organization & administration;
Disease Notification/methods;
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control;
Humans;
Korea;
Practice Guidelines as Topic;
*Sentinel Surveillance;
Vaccines/supply & distribution;
Viruses
- From:Journal of Preventive Medicine and Public Health
2008;41(4):209-213
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
Following the Anthrax bioterrorism attacks in the US in 2001, the Korean government established comprehensive countermeasures against bioterrorism. These measures included the government assuming management of all infectious agents that cause diseases, including smallpox, anthrax, plaque, botulism, and the causative agents of viral hemorrhagic fevers (ebola fever, marburg fever, and lassa fever) for national security. In addition, the Korean government is reinforcing the ability to prepare and respond to bioterrorism. Some of the measures being implemented include revising the laws and guidelines that apply to the use of infectious agents, the construction and operation of dual surveillance systems for bioterrorism, stockpiling and managing products necessary to respond to an emergency (smallpox vaccine, antibiotics, etc.) and vigorously training emergency room staff and heath workers to ensure they can respond appropriately. In addition, the government's measures include improved public relations, building and maintaining international cooperation, and developing new vaccines and drugs for treatments of infectious agents used to create bioweapons.
