Main description:

Biological warfare has, unfortunately, in the post 9/11 world become a significant topic of discussion in both the medical and lay presses. In the wake of the biological "letter bombs" containing anthrax spores, the possibility of biologic and/or toxic attacks on civilians in any part of the world became no longer a possibility. It is now part of common discussion and consciousness.

This book presents the history of the topics and clinically relevant discussions on those high risk (Category A) diseases beyond anthrax as well as a number of infections and toxins at the Category B level. Importantly, in addition, the text includes sections on Public Health Infrastructure, Public Health Law, Surveillance, Mental Health Management and Media Role all of which relate to epidemics of any sort, not just intentional biological events.

Beyond Anthrax: The Weaponization of Infectious Diseases is a product that should serve as a reference point for clinicians, epidemiologists and public health personnel to understand in practical detail many of the aspects of weapons of biowarfare as well as the appropriate responses to them.

Contents:

The History of Bioterrorism: Old Idea, New Word, Continuing Taboo.- Smallpox and Bioterrorism.- Plague.- Tularemia.- Botulism.- The Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers.- Melioidosis.- Epidemic Typhus Fever.- Category B Biotoxins.- Intentional Terrorist Contamination of Food and Water.- Public Health Infrastructure.- Public Health Law and Biological Terrorism.- Public Health Surveillance for Bioterrorism.- Psychosocial Management of Bioterrorism Events.- The Role of the Media in Bioterrorism.- Rapid Detection of Bioterrorism Pathogens.- Plant Pathogens as Biological Weapons Against Agriculture.