Fighting the Poisons of Terror: Understanding the Threat of Biological and Chemical Weapons

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Overcoming the Fear Factor

High Alert. Chemical Attack. Code Orange. Biological Weapons. Terroristic Threats. Today, these terms are all too familiar.

Now, more than ever, people are worried about biological and chemical agents being used as weapons of mass terror – and fear of the unknown makes the threat even more sinister. The threat alone can poison the mind with anxiety.

That is why the Pittsburgh Poison Center (1-800-222-1222) wants people to realize we know a great deal already about the biological and chemical agents that present a potential threat. We also know a lot about how these agents may be dispersed – which is not so easy to do – and, perhaps most importantly, how to respond to possible incidents.

Preparedness is key, and our nation’s HazMat response teams, health care systems and poison control centers are better prepared than most people would suppose. Additionally, federal agencies are collaborating with local, regional and state governments to refine preparedness and response plans.

Not the First Time: Lessons from History
A Tricky Proposition
Practical Tips for Reacting to a Potential Incident
Understanding the Terminology

To learn more about biological and chemical poisons, call your local poison center at
1-800-222-1222.

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