Biological Weapon Detection Equipment

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that bioterrorism is potentially one of the deadlier forms of terrorism because it can be silently introduced amidst large populations to cause untold health problems or large numbers of fatalities as well as create a world-wide panic. The writer maintains that the key to effectively managing and coordinating a biological incident would be early detection and a timely response. The writer then reviews the various detection methods and devices used in biological agent detection and sensing and notes that much progress has been made in the development of these devices however, there is much progress to be made in the future. The writer concludes that enabling health care workers and emergency responders to test the biological agent exposure early in the process of a crisis holds great promise for early detection and eradication of biological agent exposure for the public-at-large in an event or crisis involving biological warfare agents.

Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Biological Detection Equipment
Bio-Detection Process: A Four-Step Process
Sampler/Collector Types
Two Types of Triggers in Bio-Sensing Technologies
Flow Cytometry
Crisis Management
Summary and Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The devices are becoming increasingly less expensive and simple to use however, initiatives underway for development of newer devices that are less expensive hold promise in the near future for biological sensing and detection. While the Department of Defense has set out guidelines for Emergency Responders, it is likely that many of the smaller fire departments throughout the country have not yet prepared for this type of crisis. Enabling health care workers and Emergency Responders in testing the biological agent exposure early in the process of a crisis holds great promise for early detection and eradication of biological agent exposure for the public-at-large in an event or crisis involving biological warfare agents."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Farr, Matthew (2004) Chemical Detection vs. Biological Detection Strategies 30 Jun 2004. Frost & Sullivan. Online available at: http://www.frost.com/prod/servlet/market-insight-top.pag?docid=20844192
• Hood, Ernie (1999) Chemical and Biological Weapons: New Questions, New Answers. Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 107, Number 12, December 1999. Online available at: http://www.ehponline.org/docs/1999/107-12/hood.html
• DoD. DoD News Briefing. Proliferation: Threat and Response Briefing. Washington, DC:Department of Defense, 1997. Available: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Nov1997/t112597_t1125ptr.html [cited 19 October 1999
• Doesburg, John (2003) Briefing on Chemical and Biological Defense Readiness. 3 March 2003. U.S. Department of Defense. Online available at:
• An Introduction to Biological Agent Detection Equipment for Emergency First Responders (2001) National Institute of Justice NIJ Guide 101-00. December 2001. Law Enforcement and Corrections Standards and Testing Program.

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