Bioterror: Anthrax, Influenza, and the Future of Public Health Security

This book uses the 2001 anthrax attacks as its point of departure for an analysis of the past, present, and future of America's preparedness to deal with major challenges to public health, including bioterrorism and pandemic flu. The study identified the strength and weaknesses of the system while making recommendations for improvements. This allows the U.S. to be better prepared if faced with a larger or different biological threat. This book looks for linkages not only between bioterrorists and pandemic defenses, but also between public health security and the wider field of homeland security. Johnstone highlights some key "foundation" plans and strategies that are to serve as a basis for public health security. Failure to address these crucial issues not only creates unfounded mandates but also inhibits priority setting, leadership, and accountablity.

R. WILLIAM JOHNSTONE served on the staff of the 9/11 Commission, after working for over 20 years as a Congressional staff member. He is the author of9/11 and the Future of Transportation Security. Johnstone is a consultant on homeland and national security matters.