Chapter 17 : Early recognition and detection of biological events

In the preceding chapter, the biological agents designated as Category A agents by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are described in detail. These agents are considered the highest priority for response planning because they pose the greatest potential threats if used in biological attacks. The focus of this chapter is on early recognition and detection of such biological events so that prevention and control efforts can be instituted quickly, thereby limiting morbidity and mortality. Attention is focused on the role nurses can play in recognizing and detecting potential outbreaks in their practice setting. Bot clinical and epidemiological approaches to recognition in their practice setting. For clinical recognition, emphasis is plced on using a syndrome approach. Laboratory methods for detection are also briefly discussed (AU)