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The pitfalls of bioterrorism preparedness: The anthrax and smallpox experiences

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  • Cohen, H.W.
  • Gould, R.M.
  • Sidel, V.W.

Abstract

Bioterrorism preparedness programs have contributed to death, illness, and waste of public health resources without evidence of benefit. Several deaths and many serious illnesses have resulted from the smallpox vaccination program; yet there is no clear evidence that a threat of smallpox exposure ever existed. The anthrax spores released in 2001 have been linked to secret US military laboratories-the resultant illnesses and deaths might not have occurred if those laboratories were not in operation. The present expansion of bioterrorism preparedness programs will continue to squander health resources, increase the dangers of accidental or purposeful release of dangerous pathogens, and further undermine efforts to enforce international treaties to ban biological and chemical weapons. The public health community should acknowledge the substantial harm that bioterrorism preparedness has already caused and develop mechanisms to increase our public health resources and to allocate them to address the world's real health needs.

Suggested Citation

  • Cohen, H.W. & Gould, R.M. & Sidel, V.W., 2004. "The pitfalls of bioterrorism preparedness: The anthrax and smallpox experiences," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 94(10), pages 1667-1671.
    • Handle: RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:2004:94:10:1667-1671_2
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    Cited by:

    1. Heather Rosoff & Robert Siko & Richard John & William J. Burns, 2013. "Should I stay or should I go? An experimental study of health and economic government policies following a severe biological agent release," Environment Systems and Decisions, Springer, vol. 33(1), pages 121-137, March.
    2. Lindberg, Ulla & Salomonson, Nicklas & Sundström, Malin & Wendin, Karin, 2018. "Consumer perception and behavior in the retail foodscape–A study of chilled groceries," Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Elsevier, vol. 40(C), pages 1-7.

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