Biosecurity News in BriefSubscribe | About | Current Issue | RSS | Archive President-Elect Transition Team Posts Agenda to Strengthen BiosecurityBy Crystal Franco, December 1, 2008 The Office of the President-Elect has posted on its website the Obama-Biden plan for “securing the homeland against 21st century threats.” The plan aims to prepare the country for all-hazards, focusing specifically on preventing and mitigating the effects of terrorist attacks and major natural disasters. The plan also seeks to ensure that the federal government works closely with states and localities, community members, and the private sector.1 Obama’s plan identifies biological weapons as a “serious and increasing national security risk,” and proposes the following actions for prevention, mitigation, and response: - Prevent Bioterror Attacks: Strengthen U.S. intelligence collection overseas to identify and interdict would-be bioterrorists before they strike
- Build Capacity to Mitigate the Consequences of Bioterror Attacks: Ensure that decision-makers have the information and communication tools they need to manage disease outbreaks by linking healthcare providers, hospitals, and public health agencies. A well-planned, well-rehearsed, and rapidly executed epidemic response can dramatically diminish the consequences of biological attacks
- Accelerate the Development of New Medicines, Vaccines, and Production Capabilities: Build on America's unparalleled talent to create new drugs, vaccines, and diagnostic tests and to manufacture them more quickly and efficiently
- Lead an International Effort to Diminish Impact of Major Infectious Disease Epidemics: Promote international efforts to develop new diagnostics, vaccines, and medicines that will be available and affordable in all parts of the world1
Other 21st century threats specified in the Obama-Biden transition plan include nuclear terrorism, cyber terrorism, threats to U.S. critical infrastructure, and natural disasters. Visitors to the website are encouraged to comment and provide ideas regarding the plans presented by the Obama-Biden team.1 References - Office of the President-Elect. Homeland Security Agenda. http://change.gov/agenda/homeland_security_agenda. Accessed December 1, 2008.
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