The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #52514

Hugh Tilson, MD, DrPH, Epidemiology and Health Policy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 261 Rosenau, CD# 7400, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, 919-966-9275, hugh_tilson@unc.edu

The National Academy's Institute of Medicine (IOM) completed, in March 2002, a comprehensive study on the safety and efficacy of the anthrax vaccine. This report received high media interest when it was released because of its relevance following the bioterrorism attack on the U.S. postal system using anthrax spores as well as the publicity around vaccination of personnel in the United States Armed Forces with this vaccine. An oral summary of the study's findings and recommendations will be presented by Dr. Tilson, who was a member of the committee that drafted this report. There will be opportunity for questions and discussion in the latter portion of the session.

More detailed information on the IOM report is available via the internet at http://www.nap.edu/catalog/10310.html . At this web site, a PDF version of the entire report (a 265 page book) as well as a variety of summary reports are available.

Learning Objectives:

• To better understand the data concerning efficacy and safety of the currently licensed vaccine for anthrax.

Keywords: Bioterrorism, Prevention

Related Web page: www.nap.edu/catalog/10310.html

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Member of the Institute of Medicine "Committee to assess the safety and efficacy of the anthrax vaccine" which prepared the IOM report which is being summarized in this session.