Fast Fiction

2. What is bioterrorism?
    Bioterrorism, also known as biological terrorism, happens when individuals or groups use bacteria, viruses, or other biological organisms (such as anthrax, smallpox, botulism, etc.) to spread disease or illness.

3. Should I be concerned about bioterrorism now?
    We donít have any evidence that a bioterrorist attack has happened or is likely to happen right now.
[and it wouldn’t be their job to tell us anyway]

4. How likely is a bioterrorism attack in Los Angeles County?
    At this time, the likelihood of a bioterrorist attack is low.
[then why are you putting up those billboards?]

5. What is the Health Department doing to prepare for a bioterrorism attack?
    Los Angeles County has emergency response plans in place to deal with hazardous chemical or biological events (including bioterrorism), as well as other disasters (such as earthquakes and fires). The health department has developed ways to rapidly detect and investigate any unusual outbreaks of disease, which could be the first sign that a bioterrorism attack has occurred. Early detection is very important so that persons at risk can be identified and treated appropriately. In addition, stockpiles of antibiotics effective against the most likely bacterial bioterrorist agents are already in place. These antibiotics will be made available if a bioterrorist attack occurs. The health department also holds emergency drills and exercises on a regular basis and works with law enforcement, fire department, emergency medical services, and disaster response as well as other city, county, state, and federal agencies.

6. What can I do to protect myself and my family against biological terrorism?
    In the event of an emergency, monitor the news media.

7. What supplies do I need?
    Your supplies should include:
    ï 3-day supply of water
    ï 1 gallon per person for each day for drinking and hand washing
    ï 3-day supply of food, such as dried or canned foods
    ï Can opener
    ï 1 change of clothes and shoes for each person
    ï 1 blanket or sleeping bag for each person
    ï First aid kit with your familyís prescribed medicines
    ï Battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and waterproof matches
    ï Soap, toilet paper and extra plastic bags
    ï Any special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
    ï Extra pair of eyeglasses
    ï Copy of important family papers in a fireproof container
[question: why all the waterproof/fireproof stuff? are they gonna use napalm to control an outbreak?]

10. Should I ask my doctor to prescribe antibiotics to protect myself from bioterrorism threats?
    No.