The Bioterrorism Sourcebook

Abstract

Based on its attention-catching title, The Bioterrorism Sourcebook brings to mind a how-to guide similar to The Anarchist's Cookbook, which some consider an instruction manual for terrorists. However, The Bioterrorism Sourcebook is instead an informative tool for dealing with the effects of a bioterrorist attack. Written by two medical doctors with master's degrees in public health, the text is intended for a public health personnel audience. Although bioterrorism is an extensive subject, the authors succeed in covering a wide variety of issues while imparting a substantial amount of information. Events in bioterrorist history are covered, as well as the preparedness of current federal and local emergency response systems. Numerous BCN agents from anthrax to mycotoxins to yellow fever are given their due. Also helpful is the comprehensive index and the "Dosing Regimens" section, which includes recommended drug therapies for exposure to BCN weapons. The text has a broad scope, organized into five logical sections (Clinical Principles and Practices; Infectious Agents; Biotoxins and Category B and C Agents; Chemical Weapons; and Nuclear and Radiation Syndromes), each composed of chapters surveying more specific examples. Most chapters open with a "clinical vignette" or include a historical incident of note, providing a helpful real-world perspective as to the effects a biological, chemical, or nuclear (BCN) agent may have on the population. Each chapter also contains a brief background of the agent, pathogenesis, means of transmission, a diagnostic checklist of symptoms, and current methods of treatment. Illustrations and photographs are useful for identification of visible symptoms. In a post 9/11-world, and with events such as North Korea's revelation of nuclear tests, there is a great need for texts like The Bioterrorism Sourcebook. Unfortunately, these are few and far between. The Bioterrorism Sourcebook would be best viewed as an introductory primer in preparing healthcare professionals for a bioterrorist attack. While thorough and informative, this text is just the first step in promoting awareness of BCN agents and readying the community as a whole for potential threats.