Bio-Terrorism Preparedness

Bioterrorism is the deliberate or threatened use of bacteria, viruses or toxins to cause disease, death or fear. Bioterrorism attacks may be launched on the public, livestock, crops or environmental resources like public water supplies. The likelihood of a bioterrorist attack is thought to be low because it would be difficult to collect, weaponize and spread a biological agent in a way that could infect massive numbers of people.

Federal, state and local agencies are working together daily to protect the public. A surveillance system already in place actively monitors health issues in the community and can alert officials to unusual findings that might point to bioterrorism attack. If an attack occurs, the St. Clair County Health Department would rapidly alert the medical community, the news media, state officials and federal officials.

The St. Clair County Health Center will use color-coded boxes in media releases to identify the current health status in St. Clair County.

There are steps you can take today to protect yourself and your family:

• Educate yourself on bioterrorism.
• Create a family disaster plan.
• Assemble a disaster prep kit
• Fill out a medical card for each family member. CARD
• Know where your family’s Medication Distribution Site is located.
• Join a Neighborhood Watch, Citizens Corps or Medical Reserve group in your area.

A major bioterrorism attack could be devastating to our county, but advanced preparation can help us minimize damage and save lives.

Things to consider:

In the event of a bioterrorist attack……

• There may be a large number of casualties and extensive building damage.
• Workplaces and schools may close.
• You and your family may have to evacuate.
• Law enforcement and emergency resources may be strained. Consider limiting your phone calls to these agencies.
• Health and mental health resources may be strained.
• Media coverage may be extensive and lengthy.
• Information will surface from various sources, not all of them reliable.
• It will be critical for the public to follow directions given by law enforcement, local officials and local health departments.
• Your federal, state and local officials have a plan in place to manage a bioterrorism attack. Protecting the public will remain their top priority.

Bio-Terrorism Manual

Quarantine/Isolation Ordinance

Home Preparedness Ready-In-3

St Clair County LEPC (Local Emergency Preparedness Committee)

 SASS – Sentinel Active Surveillance System

• Download St Clair - specific SASS Form (21 kb xls)