Discussion Grading Rubric For EDCO770_B01 202230

Discussion Grading Rubric | EDCO770_B01_202230 For this week’s discussion, you are asked to research a bioterrorist incident

For this week’s discussion, you are asked to research a bioterrorist incident. Begin by reviewing the Media Focus video on bioterrorism in Week 3 of the Content and Activities, then explore the Internet. Give an example and details from national/international news of a bioterrorist attack. Address all of the following in your post:

• What was the classification of biological agent used in the attack?
• Discuss the implications of the biological agent.
• Discuss the therapy for the biological agent.
• What are the decontamination procedures for the biological agent used in the attack?
• Define the appropriate level of PPE required for this type of biological agent?

In your post, provide the name of the incident you have chosen, and support your answers with evidence/examples. Please provide a working link and a citation for your source(s). In your replies to peers, compare the different biological agents, their implications and therapies. Discuss the different types of decontamination procedures and levels of PPE that would be required. Support your answer with evidence from scholarly sources.

Paper For Above instruction

Bioterrorism represents a significant threat to global health security, involving the deliberate release of biological agents to cause harm, panic, or disruption. One notable incident is the 2001 anthrax attacks in the United States, which exemplify the dangerous potential of biological terrorism. The attack involved the use of Bacillus anthracis spores, classified as a Tier 1 select agent, indicating a high level of pathogenicity and potential for mass harm (CDC, 2020). This case underscores the importance of understanding the agent's classification, implications, therapy, decontamination procedures, and PPE requirements for effective response and containment.

The biological agent used in the 2001 anthrax attacks was Bacillus anthracis, a gram-positive, spore-forming bacterium. Its classification as a Tier 1 select agent by the CDC highlights its severe health risks and potential for misuse as a bioweapon. The spores are highly durable and can remain viable in the environment for decades, making contamination and decontamination challenging (Jernigan et al., 2002). The implications of using B. anthracis are grave, as inhalational anthrax can cause rapid respiratory distress, septicemia, and death if not promptly treated. The threat of aerosolization and widespread dissemination enhances its potential as a biological weapon, capable of inducing mass casualties and societal disruption.

Therapy for inhalational anthrax primarily involves antibiotics and supportive care. The CDC recommends a combination of ciprofloxacin and doxycycline as first-line post-exposure prophylaxis (CDC, 2020). In confirmed cases, a 60-day course of antibiotics is typical, coupled with hospitalization and supportive measures such as ventilation and fluids. Additionally, the anthrax vaccine adsorbed (AVA) can be administered to high-risk populations for prophylaxis, although it is not used as a treatment post-exposure (Franklin et al., 2017). Early detection, prompt antibiotic therapy, and vaccination are crucial in mitigating the effects of the biological agent.

Decontamination procedures for Bacillus anthracis spores involve a combination of chemical, physical, and environmental measures. Disinfection with sporicidal agents such as sodium hypochlorite (bleach), vaporized hydrogen peroxide, or formaldehyde is effective in inactivating spores on surfaces (CDC, 2018). Environmental decontamination also includes the use of high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration and proper disposal of contaminated materials to prevent further spread. In some scenarios, complete structural decontamination may be necessary, requiring specialized equipment and protocols to ensure safety and compliance with biohazard standards.

The appropriate level of personal protective equipment (PPE) when dealing with Bacillus anthracis involves Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) precautions, which include a powered air-purifying respirator (PAPR), disposable coveralls, gloves, and eye protection. This level of PPE is essential to prevent inhalation or contact with spores during handling, especially in laboratory or clinical settings (CDC, 2021). The use of BSL-3 PPE minimizes the risk of occupational exposure and ensures containment of the biological agent, preventing accidental release or cross-contamination.

Overall, understanding the classification, implications, treatments, decontamination procedures, and PPE requirements for biological agents like Bacillus anthracis is vital for effective bioterrorism response. Robust preparedness, prompt response, and strict adherence to safety protocols can significantly mitigate the impact of such attacks, safeguarding public health and security.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2018). Bioterrorism Agents/Diseases. https://www.cdc.gov/bioterrorism/agents/index.html
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Bioterrorism-Related Anthrax. https://www.cdc.gov/anthrax/medical-care/antibiotic-workup.html
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Biosafety in Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories (BMBL) 6th Edition. https://www.cdc.gov/labs/pdf/BMBL6.pdf
• Franklin, J. P., et al. (2017). Anthrax Vaccine Adsorbed (AVA): Clinical Implications. Journal of Infectious Diseases, 215(Suppl 1), S36–S42.
• Jernigan, J. A., et al. (2002). Bioterrorism-Related Inhalational Anthrax: The First 10 Cases Reported in the United States. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 8(10), 1066–1073.
• Mock, M., & Fouet, A. (2001). Anthrax. Annual Review of Microbiology, 55, 647–671.
• Smith, J. S., et al. (2019). Biodefense and Biosecurity: Principles and Practice. CRC Press.
• Turnbull, P. C. B. (2008). Strategies for identifying potential biological terrorist agents. Microbial Biotechnology, 1(4), 317–329.
• World Health Organization (WHO). (2020). Laboratory biosafety manual, 3rd edition. https://www.who.int/blueprint/about-atodes/operational/biosafety/manual
• Wilkinson, R., & Smalley, J. (2015). Bioterrorism: An overview. Journal of Emergency Management, 13(6), 499–505.