Biochemical terrorism: too awful to contemplate, too serious to ignore: subjective literature review.
BACKGROUND
It is important not to foster unnecessary public anxiety with regard to the risk of a biochemical terrorist incident, but the authorities need to consider their response strategy, particularly with regard to mental health issues.


OBJECTIVE
To describe the likely effects of a terrorist incident involving biochemical agents and to identify important response issues.


METHODS
Literature survey.


RESULTS
Observations following conventional terrorist incidents and other major trauma, including biochemical and nuclear accidents, suggest that a biochemical terrorist incident would have widespread public effects. The mental health services should play a major role in designing an effective multi-disciplinary response, particularly with regard to the reduction of public anxiety, identifying at-risk individuals and collaborating with medical and emergency services, as well as providing care for those who develop post-traumatic psychopathology.


CONCLUSIONS
We should not feel helpless in the face of a biochemical threat; there is considerable knowledge and experience to be tapped. A well-designed, well-coordinated and rehearsed strategy based on empirical evidence will do much to reduce public anxiety and increase professional confidence.
Alexander
David Alan
DA
University Medical School, University of Aberdeen, UK.
Klein
Susan
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D023482:Bioterrorism / Q000523:psychology*; D004189:Disaster Planning / Q000379:methods; D004632:Emergency Medical Services; D006076:Government; D006801:Humans; D008402:Mass Media; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000209:etiology; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration; D009042:Motivation; D010348:Patient Care Team