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Field
Observation
Indications of Possible Biological Attack |
- A
disease entity that is unusual or that does not occur naturally
in a given geographic area, or combinations of unusual disease
entities in the same patient populations
- Multiple
disease entities in the same patients, indicating that mixed agents
may have been used in the attack
- Data suggesting
a massive
point-source outbreak (for
non-contagious agents)
- Apparent
aerosol route of
infection
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- High
morbidity and mortality relative to the number of personnel at
risk
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Illness limited to fairly localized or circumscribed geographical
areas or workplaces
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Low attack rates in personnel who work in areas with filtered
air supplies or closed ventilation systems
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Sentinel dead animals of multiple species
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Absence of a competent natural vector in the area of outbreak
(for a biological agent that is vector-borne in nature)
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Responding
to a Biological Attack
Physical
Protection
The most effective and important prophylaxis against biological agents
is physical protection. A full-face respirator prevents exposure of the
respiratory tract and mucous membranes, including conjunctivae, to infectious
or toxic exposure, theoretically obviating
the need for additional measures.
Decontamination
Any dermal exposure should be treated immediately by washing with soap
and water. In addition, medical responders must guard against secondary
contamination (i.e., contamination passed from the clothing of affected
individuals) through the use of appropriate physical protection until
decontamination is complete.
Prophylaxis
and Treatment
Medical
defenses against some biological agents are limited. In light of this,
it may now be appropriate for key civilian personnel to be immunized against
major threat agents, such as anthrax and smallpox. Both civilian and military
immunization programs have now been started in the United States.
Treatment
options vary from agent to agent and include a variety of antibiotics
such as ciprofloxacin and doxycycline for bacterial agents, and supportive
therapy for viruses and toxins. Some experimental treatments are now being
tested.
Smallpox,
courtesy of World Health Organization
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