Anthrax 2001 – Lessons Learned by Public Health Laboratories

Sandra S Heatherley

doi:10.29074/ascls.15.3.183

This article requires a subscription to view the full text. If you have a subscription you may use the login form below to view the article. Access to this article can also be purchased.

Sandra S Heatherley, MPH⇑
1. is the Director of the laboratory for the Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health Department and the owner of Quality Laboratory Consultants

Address for Correspondence: Sandra Heatherley, Quality Laboratory Consultants, 518 Dolphin Pl, Corpus Christi TX 78411. (361) 851-7214. sandrah{at}ci.corpus-christi.tx.us

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To share lessons learned by one local public health department during the anthrax outbreak and associated public hysteria during the autumn of 2001.

DATA SOURCES: Current literature and personal experience.

CONCLUSIONS: Previous planning for a possible bioterrorism event is essential. Management of the communication and testing process is essential for the protection of the public.

ABBREVIATIONS: CDC = Centers for Disease Control; FBI = Federal Bureau of Investigation; SAT = Scholastic Aptitude Test.