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Last Updated:
09/29/11 03:15:47 PM
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Terrorism |
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The state
of Nevada has emergency response plans in place to deal with
hazardous chemical or biological events, as well as other
disasters; Clark County, Washoe County and Carson City
exercise these plans on a regular basis. These plans involve
the coordination of multiple agencies involved in law
enforcement, public health, fire, emergency medical
services, and disaster response, in conjunction with other
city, county, state and federal officials. Additionally,
Public Health Preparedness (PHP) is improving rapid
detection systems which will assist in the investigation of
disease outbreaks at the first indication of a biological
attack. Early detection will be very important so that
persons at risk can be identified and managed
appropriately. Stockpiles of antibiotics that are effective
against the most likely bacterial bioterrorist agents are
already in place locally and will be made available in the
event of a bioterrorist attack.
Three types of terrorism are of special concern to Nevada's
public health officials. PHP presents basic information on
these three types of terrorism. Click on the links at left
for fact sheets on each from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC). |
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Bioterrorism |
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CDC has identified six "Category A" bioterrorism agents.
These six agents are especially hazardous because they: can
be easily disseminated or transmitted person-to-person;
cause high mortality, with potential for major public health
impact; might cause public panic and social disruption; and
require special action from public health professionals.
These six agents range from naturally-occurring substances
to pathogens rarely seen in the United States. |
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Radiological Terrorism |
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This type of terrorism may likely occur as a "dirty bomb,"
which involves the release of radioactive materials. A dirty
bomb, or radiation dispersal device, is a conventional,
explosive bomb to which radioactive material has been added.
The blast of the weapon itself is capable of causing harm,
and also becomes airborne and spreads the radioactive
material to the surrounding area. The real threat of
radiological terrorism is one of fear and disruption. |
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Chemical Terrorism |
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A chemical attack is the deliberate release of a toxic gas,
liquid or solid that can poison people and the environment.
Chemical agents include sarin, mustard gas, cyanides, acids,
VX nerve agent and ricin. These agents can be released into
the air as a gas or liquid, or into a water supply as a
liquid; food and clothing can also become contaminated.
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NV
State Health Division
