The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

4041.0: Tuesday, November 18, 2003 - 9:15 AM

Abstract #73789

National bioterrorism awareness and zoonotic disease education program: Overview

Gayle B. Brown, DVM, PhD, Center for Food Security and Public Health, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, IA 50011, 515-294-7366, gbbrown@iastate.edu

A national Bioterrorism Awareness and Zoonotic Disease Education Program was established by the Center for Food Security and Public Health (CFSPH) at Iowa State University to improve the understanding and awareness of veterinarians, food producers, and animal owners on the potential impact of bioterrorist agents on human and animal health. Of the Category A, B, and C bioterrorist agents nearly all are zoonotic. For this reason it is important that information about these agents and the characteristics of zoonotic diseases be disseminated to those who might deal with them or might be affected by them. Animals serve as sentinels for human disease and early detection in animal populations of a bioterrorist agent could curtail human suffering and mortality and lessen the total impact of the event.

The participant of this session will receive information about this Center and the Train-the-Trainer program that is being conducted by 125 veterinarians in 46 states and in Puerto Rico. The participant should come away being able to identify the need for training on the Category A, B, and C agents with emphasis on their zoonotic properties, and how veterinarians, food producers, and animal owners serve a vital role in bioterrorism preparedness and response.

Learning Objectives:

Related Web page: www.cfsph.iastate.edu

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Food Security and Public Health
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Bio-Terrorism Awareness Education: Best Practices

The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA