Anthrax 2001--lessons learned by public health laboratories.
OBJECTIVE
To share lessons learned by one local public health department during the anthrax outbreak and associated public hysteria during the autumn of 2001.


METHODS
Current literature and personal experience.


CONCLUSIONS
Previous planning for a possible bioterrorism event is essential. Management of the communication and testing process is essential for the protection of the public.
Heatherley
Sandra S
SS
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health Department and Quality Laboratory Consultants, TX 78411, USA. sandrah@ci.corpus-christi.tx.us
D000881:Anthrax / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000635:transmission; D023482:Bioterrorism; D004189:Disaster Planning / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D007753:Laboratories / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008402:Mass Media; D014481:United States; D014492:United States Public Health Service