US Issues Medical Advice On Plague, Smallpox, And Botulism
By James Meikle
Health Correspondent
The Guardian
10-18-1


The government last night issued guidance to doctors and health professionals on treating three more potential biological weapons - smallpox, botulism and plague - as part of its contingency planning against terrorism.

Along with anthrax, the diseases have long been regarded by scientists as prime candidates for deliberate release but Liam Donaldson, the chief medical officer, insisted there was still no evidence of a specific threat.

Anthrax delivered through the post was "not a particularly successful biological weapon but a hugely successful psychological weapon", he said. The government was updating plans to cope with bomb attacks, illnesses caused by biological or chemical weapons and the threat of nuclear radiation, and was seeking to en sure it had appropriate supplies of equipment and drugs.

Scientists had identified about 25 naturally-occurring bacteria and viruses on top of chemical weapons such as sarin gas that might be used by terrorists. "Many of these agents would be extraordinarily difficult to produce in weaponised form but we have to plan," he said.

He told a media briefing: "If it is bioterrorism behind these anthrax attacks, it is the fear they are producing, rather than the illness they are producing, which is the success they are achieving."

The chief medical officer said the government was determined to ensure the most effective planning was in place to protect the public. "In the months and years ahead we have to look at all scenarios, however implausible. We hope this is not going to lead to even more sensationalist headlines. It is not right people should be unneccesarily frightened."

Downing Street issued a similar appeal, with Tony Blair's official spokesman saying: "We understand why people are concerned when they see events in the US but it's important that people retain a sense of perspective."

-- Anonymous, October 18, 2001