Epidemiology Corner (May 11, 2001)

Bioterrorism is the overt or covert use of disease-causing biological agents by individuals, groups or government, to intentionally induce mass casualty for political, financial or ideological gain. According to intelligence sources, it is an international threat.

Basic awareness training for all HDHHS employees is being planned. By 2002, every employee will have completed the training and will understand their role should such an event occur in the city of Houston. Positions in different divisions have been created to play key roles. Activities in different programs are geared to address the threat. In the Bureau of Epidemiology, new surveillance systems are being set up to capture early health indicators that will alert the department of a potential bioterrorism event. The Bureau of Laboratory Services is acquiring new testing capabilities. New computer linkages with different hospitals is underway with financial support from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The Office of Strategic Planning has formed partnerships outside the department to form a united force to deal effectively with the threat.

In the absence of a bioterrorim event, the newly-acquired capabilities and public health infrastructure has positioned the department on the cutting edge of technology to deal effectively with naturally-occurring outbreaks and new and emerging disease pathogens.

Epidemiology Corner is two years old! It is intended to inform our readers of issues or conditions that the Bureau of Epidemiology is responsible for investigating. Now, the Bureau is asking you, the reader, let us know if there is an issue or condition that you would like us to write about. To review what has been covered since April 1999, refer to the City web site at http://www.ci.houston.tx.us/departme/health. Then select Epidemiology, then Epidemiology Corner.

Call or send your questions to 713-794-9181.