J Prev Med Public Health.  2008 Jul;41(4):209-213. 10.3961/jpmph.2008.41.4.209.

The Strategic Plan for Preparedness and Response to Bioterrorism in Korea

• Hwang HS

• KMID: 792559
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3961/jpmph.2008.41.4.209

Abstract

Following the Anthrax bioterrorism attacks in the US in 2001, the Korean government established comprehensive countermeasures against bioterrorism. These measures included the government assuming management of all infectious agents that cause diseases, including smallpox, anthrax, plaque, botulism, and the causative agents of viral hemorrhagic fevers (ebola fever, marburg fever, and lassa fever) for national security. In addition, the Korean government is reinforcing the ability to prepare and respond to bioterrorism. Some of the measures being implemented include revising the laws and guidelines that apply to the use of infectious agents, the construction and operation of dual surveillance systems for bioterrorism, stockpiling and managing products necessary to respond to an emergency (smallpox vaccine, antibiotics, etc.) and vigorously training emergency room staff and heath workers to ensure they can respond appropriately. In addition, the government's measures include improved public relations, building and maintaining international cooperation, and developing new vaccines and drugs for treatments of infectious agents used to create bioweapons.

Keyword

Bioterrorism; Surveillance system; Education

MeSH Terms

Anti-Infective Agents/supply & distribution
Bacteria
*Bioterrorism
Disaster Planning/legislation & jurisprudence/*organization & administration
Disease Notification/methods
Disease Outbreaks/prevention & control
Humans
Korea
Practice Guidelines as Topic
*Sentinel Surveillance
Vaccines/supply & distribution
Viruses