Biological Threat

A biological threat is typically associated with the deliberate release of a biological agent, such as a bacteria, virus, or toxin in an act of terrorism; however, such a threat could very well result from an accident in a research lab.

According to the Sunshine Project more accidents have happened in biodefense and other high containment labs in recent years than the public knows about. It is not clear if the federal government is even aware of the extent of the problems.

The rash of biolab accidents is a result of the massive expansion of the biodefense program, which has brought research on bioweapons agents to scores of new labs in recent years.

Regardless of how they are dispersed most agents must be either inhaled, enter through a cut in the skin or be eaten to make you sick. This includes eating animals that have been exposed or by drinking contaminated water. Biological agents can also be harmful to crops and livestock.

Two Agents Used Most Often as Biological Weapons

Anthrax and smallpox are the two with greatest potential for mass casualties and civil disruption.

Both are highly lethal: the death rate for anthrax if untreated before onset of serious symptoms exceeds 80%; 30% of unvaccinated patients infected with variola major could die.
Both are stable for transmission in aerosol and capable of large-scale production. Anthrax spores have been known to survive for decades under the right conditions. WHO was concerned that smallpox might be freeze-dried to retain virulence for prolonged periods.
Both have been developed as agents in state programs. Iraq has produced anthrax for use in Scud missiles and conducted research on camelpox virus, which is closely related to smallpox. A Soviet defector has reported that the former Soviet Union produced smallpox virus by the ton (Kortepeter & Gerald).

What to do if exposed to biological agents

The first evidence of a biological threat may be when you notice symptoms of the disease caused by exposure to an agent. Be suspicious of any symptoms you notice, but do not assume that any illness is a result of the attack.

Move away quickly.
Remove and bag your clothes and personal items. Follow official instructions for disposal of contaminated items.
Wash yourself with soap and water and put on clean clothes.
Contact authorities.
Seek medical assistance. You may be advised to stay away from others or even quarantined. Have plan to evacuate or shelter in place.
Listen to the media for official instructions.

If you become aware of an unusual and suspicious release of an unknown substance nearby, it doesn't hurt to protect yourself. Be prepared to improvise to protect your nose, mouth, eyes and cuts in your skin.

Cover your mouth and nose with layers of fabric that can filter the air but still allow breathing. For example, two to three layers of cotton such as a t-shirt, handkerchief or towel. Otherwise, several layers of tissue or paper towels may help. It is very important that most of the air you breathe comes through the mask or cloth, not around it.

Do whatever you can to make the
best fit possible for children.

Note that it will take time to determine what the illness is, how it should be treated, and who is in danger.

Watch television, listen to radio, or check the Internet for official news and information including signs and symptoms of the disease, areas in danger, if medications or vaccinations are being distributed, and where you should seek medical attention if you become ill.

Use common sense and practice good hygiene.

Biological Threats & HEPA Filters

Using HEPA Filters

Consider installing a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter in your furnace return duct. These filters remove particles in the 0.3 to 10 micron range and will filter out most biological agents that may enter your house. If you do not have a central heating or cooling system, a stand-alone portable HEPA filter can be used.
If you have a central heating and cooling system in your home with a HEPA filter, leave it on if it is running or turn the fan on if it is not running. Moving the air in the house through the filter will help remove the agents from the air. If you have a portable HEPA filter, take it with you to the internal room where you are seeking shelter and turn it on.
If you are in an apartment or office building that has a modern, central heating and cooling system, the system’s filtration should provide a relatively safe level of protection from outside biological contaminants.
HEPA filters will not filter chemical agents.

Sear offers a portable SPT Magic HEPA air cleaner with Ionizer - Effectively purifies air for rooms up to 180 sq.ft. Built with multiple functions: HEPA filter, Activate Carbon filter and Ionizer, this unit targets and removes harmful particles, reduces odor and airborne antagonists. Features and Functions - Manual 2-speed controls with power light - Convenient filter access for easy replacement- Filter change calendar- Ionizer switch- UL approved HEPA filter removes 99.97% of:Dust- Dust mites- Anthrax spores- Mold spored- Pet dander- Harmful gases Activated Carbon filter reduces odor and removes 95% of: Smoke- Fumes. Ionizer removes 99.97% of: Viruses- Bacteria- Pollen- Small allergens. Specifications Input voltage 120V / 60Hz Power consumption 100 watts.

Gaffco BDU-48 Filtration System

Gaffco BDU-48 Filtration System

The Gaffco BDU-48 is a portable, positive pressure, emergency air filtration system is
designed to offer protection in the event of a nuclear, biological, or chemical event when installed in a protected space (room) with a maximum volume of 3,500 cubic feet (99 cubic meters). When properly installed, this system is capable of giving adequate supply of filtered air for up to 12 occupants, according to Israeli standards.

After a Biological Attack

In some situations, such as the case of the anthrax letters sent in 2001, people may be alerted to potential exposure. If this is the case, pay close attention to all official warnings and instructions on how to proceed. The delivery of medical services for a biological event may be handled differently to respond to increased demand.

The basic public health procedures and medical protocols for handling exposure to biological agents are the same as for any infectious disease.

It is important for you to pay attention to official instructions via radio, television, and emergency alert systems in the event of a biological threat.

Signs and Symptoms of Exposure

Symptoms

If a family member develops any of the symptoms below, keep them separated from others if possible, practice good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid spreading germs, and seek medical advice.

A temperature of more than 100 degrees
Nausea and vomiting
Stomachache
Diarrhea
Pale or flushed face
Headache
Cough
Earache
Thick discharge from nose
Sore throat
Rash or infection of the skin
Red or pink eyes
Loss of appetite
Loss of energy or decreases in activity

Hygiene

If someone is sick, you should practice good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid spreading germs.

Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
Do not share food or utensils.
Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Consider having the sick person wear a face mask to avoid spreading germs.
Plan to share health-related information with others, especially those who may need help understanding the situation and what specific actions to take.

Additional Resources

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National Strategy for Countering Bio Threats

Be Informed Biological Threat

Agroterroism Preparedness

Biological Threat Sources

Click here to access "Potential Biological Weapons Threats" - by Mark G. Kortepeter and Gerald W. Parker. U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Maryland.

The Sunshine Project - Texas A&M Bioweapons Accidents More the Norm than an Exception

Ready.gov - Biological Threat http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/biological.html

FEMA - Biological Threats
http://www.fema.gov/hazard/terrorism/bio/index.shtm

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