Bioterrorism - Disaster Plan - Essay Example

Bioterrorism: Disaster Plan of New York of the Disaster Plan The disaster plan of New York from the Office of Emergency Management (OEM) with direct supervision from the Mayor of New York, Michael R. Bloomberg, is a comprehensive document that contains relevant and crucial topics to ensure the safety and security of the public in times of emergencies. Entitled Ready New York: Preparing for Emergencies in New York City, the plan presented the following topics: preparedness basics (containing checklists for disaster plan, go bag, and emergency supply kit); emergency evacuation and sheltering; knowing the hazards in New York City in terms of diverse weather conditions, utilities disruptions, earthquakes, fire, chemical spills, disease and biological outbreaks and terrorism; with special considerations for people with disabilities, those with mental health problems, pet owners and those in subways; how to get involved and how to contact crucial and critical numbers in times of emergencies.

In cases of bioterrorism, the Bureau of Emergency Preparedness and Response (BEPR) is described as “the use, or threatened use, of biological agents to promote or spread fear or intimidation upon an individual, a specific group, or the population as a whole for religious, political, ideological, financial, or personal purposes” (par. 1). The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) present various categories for bioterrorism agents and diseases with preparation and planning guidelines detailed and specifically enumerated in their official website for the public’s awareness and guidance (CDC: Emergency Preparedness and Response, 1).

In New York City, the disaster plan specifically addressed bioterrorism by stating that “the City’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) uses a syndromic surveillance system that monitors emergency room visits, ambulance runs and pharmacy sales” (OEM, 17). Further, the report stated a contact number in health emergency cases where Points of Dispensing, noted as special clinics are deemed necessary to distribute antibiotics and vaccines. The contact numbers 311 (TTY:212-504-4115) or logging to www.NYC.gov.

were recommended (OEM, 17). Participating in the Plan As previously indicated, the disaster plan encourages the public to get involved by helping others prepare through sharing the information gathered and by assisting in the recovery process. More information are provided in OEM on page 21 which stipulates becoming involved through volunteering or by making a donation. To become a volunteer, there are several affiliated organizations that are enumerated in the plan so that those who are interested could contact any of the organizations before any disaster strikes.

Two specific affiliate organizations: the NYC’s Citizen Corps Council or the NYC’s Community Emergency Response Team with websites and contact numbers are specified accordingly. To make a donation, the plan recommends waiting for instructions from local officials or appointed organizations to ensure that items to be donated would not be wasted. By making a proactive stance, one can assist is the disaster plan and in responding to emergency situations, as required. Works Cited Bureau of Emergency Preparedness and Response (BEPR).

Definition of Bioterrorism. 2005. Web. 28 April 2011. < http://www.azdhs.gov/phs/edc/edrp/es/bthistor1.htm> Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Emergency Preparedness and Response. N.d. Web. 28 April 2011. < http://www.bt.cdc.gov/bioterrorism/prep.asp> Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Ready New York: Preparing for Emergencies in New York City. N.d. Web. 28 April 2011.