title: Bioterrorism preparedness: planning for the future.
abstract: The release of nerve gas in a Tokyo subway and attempted releases of biological agents by the Aum Shinrikyo cult have demonstrated the willingness and ability of modern-day terrorists to use unconventional weapons. Unlike explosive weapons, the use of biologic weapons may only become apparent once people become ill. The detection and response to these man-made outbreaks will occur initially at the medical and public health levels. Therefore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and its partners are strengthening their response, disease detection, diagnostic, and communication capabilities to better protect the nation's citizens against biological or chemical terrorism.
authors.affiliation: Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Program, National Centers for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
authors.forename: L D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Rotz
authors.forename: D
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Koo
authors.forename: P W
authors.initials: PW
authors.lastname: O'Carroll
authors.forename: R B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Kellogg
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Sage
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Lillibridge
mesh_terms: D001694:Biological Warfare; D002487:Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, U.S.; D002618:Chemical Warfare; D004189:Disaster Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D015980:Public Health Practice; D014481:United States; D014754:Violence