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Hospitals would stuggle against CBRN response
by Ted Purlain on May 12, 2010

Studies have shown that hospital emergency and trauma facilities, which are already stressed, would struggle to treat victims in the event of a chemical, biological, radiological of nuclear attack.

CBRN Resilience 2010 conference announced
by Nick Rees on April 14, 2010

The CBRN Resilience 2010 conference, which will bring together high level policy briefings and first responder presentations to ensure that England is prepared for a bioterror attack, has been announced for June 29 and 30.

Hazmat Hood to protect against bioterror in under 15 minutes
by Nick Rees on April 13, 2010

A new product, dubbed Hazmat Hood, that aims to protect first responders in a bioterror emergency will launch at this year's Counter Terror Expo.

U.S. not prepared for bioterror decontamination, study says
by Tina Redlup on April 13, 2010

A recent assessment in the journal Biosecurity and Bioterrorism has revealed that responsibility on the federal level for decontamination after a bioterror attack would be extremely hard and that the lines of responsibility are not clear.

DHS announces plans to decrease detection time
by Tina Redlup on April 12, 2010

The Department of Homeland Security has announced plans to cut its detection time for a biological attack from 36 hours down to four hours.

Guiliani questions Obama's nuclear strategy shift
by Ted Purlain on April 9, 2010

Some leading experts have questioned President Obama's recent announcement that the American nuclear strategy would be narrowed and that attacks with biological or chemical weapons would not be met with a nuclear reprisal.

HHS names five new regional directors
by Nick Rees on April 9, 2010

Five new regional directors for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have been announced by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius.

DHS forms Preparedness Task Force
by Daniel Purt on April 8, 2010

The formation of a local, state, tribal and federal Preparedness Task Force has been announced by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano.

Multiple applications for Pitt bioterror protection polymer
by Nick Rees on April 7, 2010

A new material crafted out of polymers developed by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh that can neutralize some effects of biological and chemical weapons has shown wide possibilities for its application against bioterror threats.

Israel begins distribution of biochemical warfare protection kits
by Tina Redlup on April 7, 2010

The distribution of kits to protect against biochemical warfare has begun in Israel, Deputy Defense Minister Matan Vilnai told Yahoo News, noting that the distribution is not linked to any imminent threat.

NATO to discuss Demron
by Nick Rees on April 5, 2010

The NATO Advanced Study Institute will discuss Demron, the world's first and only fabric to provide multi-hazard protection against biological, chemical, nuclear, infrared radiation and heat, and bomb and ballistic threats this week.

Biosecurity bill called into question
by Nick Rees on April 2, 2010

A bill called the Biosecurity and Vaccine Development Improvement Act was introduced last month by Sen. Arlen Specter and Pennsylvania Sen. Robert Casey.

Pentagon beefs up biosecurity
by Nick Rees on April 2, 2010

The Pentagon Force Protection Agency, following a March even that saw three officers stop a gunman outside of the Pentagon, has begun efforts to upgrade security.

China steps up bioterror evacuation plans
by Ted Purlain on April 2, 2010

China's central government has given the task of creating an escape plan for tourists at Tianamen Square in the event of a bioterror event to Professor Liu Shuhua, deputy director of the department of atmospheric sciences at Peking University.

Ground broken on Kazakhstan lab to strengthen pathogen security
by Tina Redlup on April 2, 2010

The United States and Kazakhstan have officially broken ground on construction of Kazakhstan's Central Reference Laboratory, which will be used to increase security for Kazakhstan's collection of dangerous pathogens.

National Biodefense Science Board calls for greater collaboration
by Ted Purlain on March 31, 2010

The National Biodefense Science Board has released a 103 page reports as part of a comprehensive review of the nation's medical countermeasures efforts and the nation's ability to withstand a bioterror attack.

HHS secretary calls for new initiatives to fight bioterror
by Nick Rees on March 31, 2010

On Monday, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano urged the scientific and technology community to develop innovative initiatives to fight the nation's threats.

Canceled Las Vegas attack simulation might signal shift
by Nick Rees on March 31, 2010

A mock dirty bomb terrorist attack exercise in Las Vegas has been canceled by the Obama administration at Sen. Harry Reid's request, possibly signalling a shift in how the nation plans for terror attacks.

Strengthening of nation's biosecurity applauded
by Nick Rees on March 31, 2010

The Association of Public Health Laboratories has applauded the Working Group on Strengthening the Biosecurity of the United States for its recent findings in regards to the efficiency of existing policies on security in public health laboratories.

National Biodefense Science Board makes CBRN recommendations
by Pat Dulnier on March 29, 2010

The National Biodefense Science Board has recommended that a major effort be launched by the federal government to better focus its activities on developing medical countermeasures for biological, chemical, radiological and nuclear threats.

North Chicago city simulates chemical attack
by Nick Rees on March 29, 2010

The Rapid Deployment Response Team of the Zion, Illinois Police Department was faced with a simulated chemical attack last Friday within the city's Central Middle School.

Experts question preparation of EMS in bioterror event
by Tina Redlup on March 26, 2010

Terrorism's recent "Prevention of WMD Proliferation and Terrorism Report Card" raised the specter of the U.S.'s lack of preparation to protect its people and frontline responders in the face of a bioterror attack.

India and U.S. discuss joint CBRN exercise
by Pat Dulnier on March 24, 2010

A joint training exercise in biological, chemical and nuclear warfare between the United States and India is currently under consideration following a U.S. proposal, the Indian newspaper The Tribune has reported.

Significant gaps identified in England's WMD strategy
by Tina Redlup on March 24, 2010

England has identified significant gaps in its ability to prevent and cope with the aftermath of a terrorist attack utilizing nuclear or chemical weapons, the Daily Mail has reported.

NATO to hold CBRN workshop
by Nick Rees on March 24, 2010

A chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense workshop and exhibition will be held at NATO's headquarters in Brussels this week.

President of Biopolicy Institute warns of bioterror threat
by Nick Rees on March 23, 2010

"The release of anthrax is silent and making endless quantities is very easy," Barry Kellman, president of the International Security & Biopolicy Institute, told the Union League Club of Chicago last week during a lecture.

Congress warned of overseas bioterrorists
by Nick Rees on March 22, 2010

State department and non-government experts have told Congress that countering bioterror threats overseas is essential for protecting the United States

Wyoming stages anthrax response test
by Tina Redlup on March 16, 2010

The Albany Count Public Health in Wyoming, working in conjunction with numerous other governmental agencies, recently conducted an Anthrax Response Exercise Series test in Laramie, Wyoming.

Purdue study questions improvement of biopreparedness
by Nick Rees on March 10, 2010

Despite a surge in funds available for bioterrorism preparedness over the last decade, a Purdue University study says that local public health resources have not been improved.

Congress advised on water treatment protection
by Rita Uplend on March 10, 2010

Congress has been advised by the American Water Works Association that any new chemical security legislation needs to reflect local water experts' needs to make key treatment decisions.

Idaho State virtual world finalist for bioterror training challenge
by Nick Rees on March 10, 2010

Idaho State University's "Play2Train" Second Life application has been named by the U.S. Army Simulation and Training Technology Center as a finalist in its inaugural Federal Virtual Worlds Challenge.

Indian navy to develop NBC training facility
by Paul Tinder on March 9, 2010

India's navy has begun the creation of a nuclear, biological and chemical defense training facility.

Emergency responders should be immunized against anthrax
by Andrew Zaleski on March 8, 2010

Emergency responders arrived at Sen. Tom Daschle’s Capitol Hill office on Oct. 15, 2001 suited in personal protective equipment (PPE).

UPMC releases assessment of health preparedness
by Nick Rees on March 8, 2010

The Center for Biosecurity of UPMC has released a comprehensive assessment of the Health and Human Services Hospital Preparedness program to aid in developing recommendations for improving and evaluating future hospital preparedness efforts.

Missouri National Guard receives biothreat training
by Ted Purlain on March 8, 2010

Missouri National Guard members at Fort Leonard Wood were trained this weekend on biological, chemical and nuclear detection equipment.

Thinktank says CBRN defense market worth $7.9 billion and growing
by Nick Rees on March 3, 2010

The independent defense industries Visiongain thinktank has announced that the global chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear defense market in 2009 was worth $7.9 billion.

S.C. simulates biological attacks
by Tina Redlup on March 3, 2010

South Carolina's Horry County has announced a four day public safety exercise that will focus on handling large-scale biological and chemical weapons attacks.

Lawmakers briefed on biodetection advances
by Nick Rees on March 3, 2010

Lawmakers were briefed last week by a government biosecurity expert on the next generation "lab-in-a-box," which would be used by the Department of Homeland Security to detect, identify and aid in response to bioterrorism attacks.

Smiths Detection launches BIO-ACT
by Nick Rees on March 2, 2010

BIO-ACT, a complete emergency response assessment solution to rapidly identify biological warfare acts in the field, has been launched by Smiths Detection.

Report highlights misuse of funds for homeland security
by Paul Tinder on March 1, 2010

A report released by the Washington-based Center for Public Integrity and the Center for Investigative Reporting, based in Berkeley, California, includes an interactive map to detail the use of homeland security readiness in all 50 states.

Israel begins distribution of gas masks
by Nick Rees on March 1, 2010

Israel began its distribution of new gas masks to civilians on Sunday, which are meant to protect the nation in the event of a biological or chemical attack

Biothreats to agriculture highlighted
by Pat Dulnier on March 1, 2010

The International Agri-Center in Tulare, California was recently visited by government officials in an attempt to raise awareness of the threat, impact and response needs in the face of potential terrorist attacks on the agricultural sector.

Further review sought of 2001 anthrax mailings
by Pat Dulnier on February 26, 2010

Further review is being sought by the United States House of Representatives over the 2001 anthrax mailings that resulted in five deaths that was recently closed by the FBI.

Results demanded of government biothreat programs
by Nick Rees on February 26, 2010

At this week's Homeland Security budget hearing, Congressman David Price noted his concern about two programs meant to track and alter biothreats.

Medkits could be the future of fighting bioterror
by Nick Rees on February 25, 2010

A former Deputy Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services has recently written that facing the problem of bioterrorism will require creative thinking and the ingenuity of the American people.

Bioattack simulated in Tennessee
by Ted Purlain on February 25, 2010

Eighteen members of the Army National Guard and four members of the Air Force National Guard used Shelbyville, Tenn.'s Calsonic Arena this week to stage a training exercise simulating a biological or chemical attack.

INTERPOL trains Asian and South Pacific officials in bioterror threat prevention
by Tina Redlup on February 25, 2010

A recent "Train-the-Trainer" session for the prevention of bioterrorism presented by INTERPOL was attended by law enforcement, customs and public health officials from Asia and the South Pacific.

Chimerix founder to speak at Institute of Medicine Workshop
by Tina Redlup on February 24, 2010

Chimerix, Inc.'s founder and CEO George Painter, Ph.D., will join with representatives from government, industry and academia in an Institute of Medicine Workshop.

Tunisian officials work with Air Force on CBRN simulation
by Nick Rees on February 23, 2010

Tunisian officers recently traveled to Ramstein, Germany to work with the United States' 17th Air Force to begin preparing for a medical exercise focusing on potential responses to biological, chemical, nuclear and explosive threats.

Israeli hospital's parking garage to double as emergency CBRN hospital
by Nick Rees on February 23, 2010

A new three-floor underground car park to be built at Rambam Hospital in Haifa, Israel will double as an emergency hospital in the event of a biological, chemical or nuclear attack.

India to play high priority on biodefense
by Nick Rees on February 23, 2010

India's Defense Research and Development Organization has announced that it will place a high priority on the development of systems, including better biological and chemical defense systems, to combat the challenges of terrorism.

Europe needs generic response plan to pandemic threats, expert says
by Ted Purlain on February 23, 2010

Disease specific plans utilized by most European countries could cost precious time and resources, a study about gaps in pandemic preparedness has revealed.

HHS Sec. Sebelius speaks on health preparedness
by Pat Dulnier on February 19, 2010

U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius spoke about efforts to strengthen health preparedness at this week's 2010 Public Health preparedness Summit.

Tata-Bruker offers CBRN vehicle for Commonwealth Games
by Nick Rees on February 17, 2010

Tata-Bruker, a U.K.-based chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear detection solution manufacture, has offered New Delhi, India a reconnaissance vehicle to use to combat terrorist threats during the upcoming Commonwealth Games.

Expert says bioattack unlikely
by Ted Purlain on February 17, 2010

Experts have said that a biological or nuclear attack on the United States by terrorist remains the nation's greatest threat but is unlikely to occur.

Quarter of Ontario hospitals not prepared for pandemic, report says
by Nick Rees on February 17, 2010

A Queen's University study has revealed that one quarter of Ontario, Canada hospitals do not currently have pandemic plans in place and few have tested existing plans.

Kansas State to lead workshop on biosecurity for agriculture
by Nick Rees on February 16, 2010

The Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment and Cooperative Extension Service and the Extension Disaster Education network has organized a workshop in Liberal, Kansas, to prepare for potential bioterrorist threats and other disasters.

- Coast Guard cuts could leave shores unprotected from bioterrorists
by Nick Rees on February 16, 2010

A proposed U.S. Coast Guard budget cut could take Camden County, Georgia's maritime Homeland Security team away from Kings Bay, leaving the area unprotected during threats of biological, chemical or radiological attacks.

Anti-vaccine movement could have deadly consequences in the event of an attack
by Tina Redlup on February 16, 2010

The recent anti-vaccine movement, meant to combat the theory that childhood immunizations could be linked to autism, could seriously raise the dangers of the United States' response to potential acts of bioterror, an expert has recently announced.

Yuma air station tests CBRN preparedness
by Nick Rees on February 13, 2010

Air station personnel at a Yuma air station have finished a joint training exercise with local emergency response services to assess their ability to respond to biological, chemical and nuclear attacks while coordinating their responsibilities.

Minot AFB prepares for biological and chemical attacks
by Tina Redlup on February 13, 2010

Minot Air Force Base has completed a 48 hour training exercise, dubbed Prairie Night 10-1, to ensure that members of its 5th Bomb Wing are prepared in the event of a biological or chemical attack if deployed to Iraq or Afghanistan.

Budget proposes extension to chemical facility anti-terror standards
by Nick Rees on February 13, 2010

Under the White House's proposed fiscal 2011 budget proposal, current chemical facility anti-terrorism standards will be extended one year while a bipartisan group of senators has introduced legislation to reauthorize CFATS for five years.

L.A. port beefs up security against bioterrorism
by Tina Redlup on February 11, 2010

In a plan to protect the L.A.-Long Beach port complex from biological, chemical, radiologic and nuclear attacks, the city has announced a cutting-edge ship, radiation-detecting helicopter and biological and chemical sniffing dog.

Calif. water utility secures unmanned stations from biothreats
by Pat Dulnier on February 11, 2010

The investor-owned Alco Water Service has begun using an RFID-based system for security at its unmanned pump stations throughout Salinas, Calif., bringing them into compliance with the Bioterrorism Act of 2002.

Conferences will review U.S.'s ability to reduce biothreat
by Ted Purlain on February 10, 2010

A pair of conferences over the next few weeks will enact a comprehensive review of the United States' ability to reduce the impact of a biological weapons attack.

New bill would increase response effectiveness in face of bioattack
by Tina Redlup on February 4, 2010

H.R. 4580, the Metropolitan Medical Response System Act, would ensure the proper integration and coordination of local emergency management plans int he event of a biological attack, nuclear bomb or natural disaster.

New study shed light on how citizens will react to bio-outbreak
by Pat Dulnier on February 4, 2010

A new study has highlighted how people behave during pandemics and potentially paved the way to predict protective behaviors by identifying key demographic and psychological factors, giving light on how populations might react to a bioterror event.

Sebelius responds to president's 2011 HHS budget
by Tina Redlup on February 3, 2010

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services statement highlights critical components of President Obama's 2011 HHS budget that will protect citizens from bioterrorism and also protect the health and safety of American citizens.

Las Vegas expected to approve grants to fight bioterror
by Tina Redlup on February 3, 2010

Las Vegas' County Commission is expected to beef up its security against potential biothreats, approving several agenda items that will allow it to better combat biothreats.

Security stepped up at Super Bowl
by Nick Rees on February 2, 2010

Security measures at this year's Super Bowl have been stepped up following the recent attempted Christmas airline terror attack.

Pentagon to announce new conflict fighting measures
by Rita Uplend on February 2, 2010

A draft of the Pentagon's new strategic outlook calls for the preparation for numerous conflicts in many styles, a radical departure from the normal shaping of the U.S. military to fight two major conventional wars simultaneously.

Senate Homeland Security Committee senator weighs in on Obama's bioterrorism announcement
by Rita Uplend on January 30, 2010

The ranking member of the Senate Homeland Security Committee has weighed in on President Barack Obama's announcement during his State of the Union Address of a new initiative to fight bioterrorism.

Malls could be targets for Al Qaida bioterror attacks
by Tina Redlup on January 30, 2010

Counter terror experts have announced that Al Qaida has set its sights onto using biological and chemical attacks on shopping malls and other soft targets.

President speaks of new bioterror initiative in State of the Union
by Rita Uplend on January 28, 2010

In his State of the Union address, President Barack Obama promised to take steps to ensure that a faster threat is ensured against the threat of bio-terrorism.

Universal Detection Technology responds to WMD commission report
by Nick Rees on January 28, 2010

Universal Detection Technology has responded to the recent scathing WMD commission report that gave the government an "F" for its preparedness for biological attacks.

Commission report a step in the right direction, but international preparedness shouldn't be ignored, expert says
by Nick Rees on January 27, 2010

"The notion that we can insulate ourselves in any meaningful sense from a pandemic disease is naive," says Barry Kellman, president of the International Security & Biopolicy Institute.

Commission gives U.S. a failing grade for biopreparedness
by Ted Purlain on January 27, 2010

A report card released today by the bipartisan Commisson on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism has turned a critical eye to the preparedness by the United States for a bioattack.

President Obama to unveil bioterror response plan during State of the Union
by Nick Rees on January 27, 2010

A new plan will be unveiled by President Barack Obama during his State of the Union Address to allow for a quicker and better response to bioterror threats and attacks, the White House has announced.

Oakland and BART to test emergency response capabilities
by Nick Rees on January 27, 2010

The Alameda County Public Health Department and Bay Area Rapid Transit will conduct a real-time, mass vaccination on BART's regional transit system in oakland to test for emergency readiness in the event of a bioattack or pandemic.

President and CEO of Radiation Shield Technologies announced as chairman for CBRNe Conference
by Nick Rees on January 25, 2010

Ronald F. DeMeo, president and CEO of Radiation Shield Technologies, has been announced as chairman for the 5th Annual CBRNe Conference.

Rep. Loretta Sanchez named new head of terrorism, unconventional threats subcommittee
by Ted Purlain on January 25, 2010

Rep. Loretta Sanchez, D-Calif., has been selected as the new head of the U.S. House Armed Services terrorism, unconventional threats and capabilities subcommittee.

India sets up special CBRN unit
by Nick Rees on January 22, 2010

India's Maharashtra home minister has ordered state police to set up a specialized unit with a goal of tackling biological, chemical and nuclear weapons in the face of future terror challenges.

Report card expected soon on nation's biopreparedness
by Tina Redlup on January 22, 2010

The Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism have announced that they will release a report card next week on the government's ability to protect the United States in the event of a terror attack or WMD.

U.S. holds pre-Olympics bio-planning exercise
by Nick Rees on January 22, 2010

U.S. federal, state and local authorities have finished a planning exercise to respond to a potential massive health disaster in British Columbia during the 2010 Winter Games.

S.C. has test run for bioterror vaccination program
by Tina Redlup on January 18, 2010

A temporary hospital was erected on the Lexington County, South Carolina ball fields to vaccinate citizens against swine flu while simultaneously acting as a test run in preperation for a bioterror event.

Drive-through clinics could stem effects of bioattack
by Nick Rees on January 15, 2010

A study by physicians at Stanford Hospital & Clinics has concluded that, in the event of a pandemic or biological attack, patients' own cars can be effectively utilized as a drive-through emergency department.

Israel begins bioattack simulation
by Nick Rees on January 14, 2010

Israel's National Emergency Authority has begun the largest-ever exercise meant to train security forces on the proper response to a citywide biological attack.

IPRED conference comes to a close
by Tina Redlup on January 14, 2010

Following two days of lectures and activities, the first part of the IPRED conference run by the IDF Home Front Command on emergency preparedness and response has ended.

Guam simulates attack
by Tina Redlup on January 13, 2010

Guam simulated a biological, chemical and radioactive attack this week as part of a 36 hour training exercise to test local and federal agencies' preparedness in the face of a terrorist attack.

CDC to increase Preparedness and Emergency Response Research Centers
by Nick Rees on January 13, 2010

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will increase the number of Preparedness and Emergency Response Research Centers to nine following the awarding of $2.7 million to create two more of the centers.

Maryland hospital tabbed as destination in the event of bioattack
by Tina Redlup on January 11, 2010

A newly announced federally funded partnership will make a Cheverly, Maryland hospital a destination in the event of a terrorist attack.

Planned bioattack simulation in Israel could be sign of coming biowar, activist warns
by Nick Rees on January 8, 2010

Israel's planned simulated biological warfare attack could be the run up to a catastrophic response to Iran and Hezbollah, Elias Bejjani, a Canadian-Lebanese human rights activist has said.

HHS releases National Health Security Strategy
by Tina Redlup on January 8, 2010

The National Health Security Strategy was released today by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. The plan is the nation's first comprehensive strategy to focus on protecting people's health during a large-scale emergency.

Israel to simulate biological attacks
by Tina Redlup on January 6, 2010

Israel will simulate the largest exercise in its history simulating a response to a biological warfare attack next week.

- Jim Talent and Bob Graham question America's preparedness for biological event
by Nick Rees on January 6, 2010

America's response to the H1N1 flu has shown that the nation is not prepared to deal with such a pandemic, experts have said.

Video games to train emergency responders
by Nick Rees on January 5, 2010

Video games will be used to train workers in emergency response training in the face of a biological attack, U.S. authorities have announced.

DHS seeks revolutionary bioterror technologies
by Nick Rees on January 4, 2010

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has issued a long-range broad agency announcement seeking revolutionary technologies to improve homeland security missions and operations.

U.S. Postal Service to be in charge of drug delivery in the event of a bioattack
by Nick Rees on December 31, 2009

Following an executive order released Wednesday, the U.S. Postal Service will be put in charge of delivering drugs and other medical aid to Americans in the event of a large-scale biological weapon attack.

South Africa prepared for bioattack at World Cup
by Nick Rees on December 31, 2009

Approximately 450,000 soccer fans are expected to stream into South Africa for the World Cup tournament, June 11 through July 11, and the nation says it is prepared for the all manner of threats, from bioattack to nuclear.

University of Texas Biocontainment Training Center receives federal funding
by Nick Rees on December 30, 2009

The National Biocontainment Training Center at the University of Texas has received $5 million in federal funding support.

Rules drafted by Pennsylvania Supreme Court for pandemic, bioattack event
by Tina Redlup on December 30, 2009

New rules ordered by Pennsylvania's Supreme Court will allow a county judge to cancel trials and jury duty in the wake of a catastrophe such as a bioattack.

Three samples test positive for anthrax in N.H.
by Nick Rees on December 30, 2009

Three samples tested by the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human services have now been confirmed as positive for anthrax.

NYPD prepares bioattack contingency for New Year's Eve
by Daniel Purt on December 29, 2009

The NYPD will utilize biological and radiation detection devices in Times Square this year to guard against a terrorist attack on New Year's Eve.

PDAs might increase survival during bioattack
by Paul Tinder on December 29, 2009

A report in the International Journal of Healthcare Technology and Management says that utilizing a digital checklist for patients who are being administered emergency drugs during a bioterrorist attack can reduce the fatigue factor and save lives.

Louisiana begins drawing up plans for bioattack treatments
by Ted Purlain on December 28, 2009

Guidelines to specify which patients will receive access to lifesaving treatments in the event of a bioterrorist attack, severe pandemic or natural disaster that overwhelms the medical system are being developed by Louisiana health professionals.

Israel to issue gas masks to population
by Tina Redlup on December 28, 2009

Israel will begin distributing its entire population with gas masks in two months, though no reason has officially been given by the Israeli government.

Biothreat response website launched for those with special needs
by Nick Rees on December 24, 2009

The Northeast Texas Public Health District has debuted a new website with a goal of making information on emergency preparedness information easily accessible to special needs residents.

Lugar-Nunn program constructs biological monitoring station in Kazakhstan
by Nick Rees on December 24, 2009

U.S. Sen. Dick Lugar has announced on the floor of the Senate the success of the Nunn-Lugar Cooperation Threat Reduction program, which has, among other accomplishments, built and equipped a biological monitoring station in Kazakhstan.

New tools will fight bioterrorism in food supply chain
by Pat Dulnier on December 23, 2009

A new set of tools designed by the FDA and the United States Department of Agriculture aims to aid food-animal producers in mitigating risk of bioterrorism on the food production process.

New masks to protect service members' children from biological, chemical threats
by Tina Redlup on December 23, 2009

The children of U.S. service members and their families are now being provided with a protection system for use in the event of a biological or chemical attack.

Anthrax response: Guidance and Questions
by Barry Kellman on December 18, 2009

How should we cope with a massive anthrax attack, and how can we prepare now so that our coping is optimal?

Barry Kellman addresses the House International Affairs Subcommittee on Terrorism & Nonproliferation
by Ted Purlain on December 18, 2009

Following his staff briefing at the House International Affairs Subcommittee on Terrorism & Nonproliferation yesterday, Barry Kellman, president of the International Security & Biopolicy Institute, spoke with BioPrepWatch.

Report calls for change of thinking on defending against bioterror
by Tina Redlup on December 18, 2009

A new study released next month that shows the standard risk analysis used by security risk analysts based on probabilities of uncertain hazards may not, in fact, capture the impact of an intelligent attacker's intent.

N.Y. receives funds to combat biological agents
by on December 17, 2009

Western New York will be benefited by more than $11 million in local defense funding to combat biological agents from the Defense Appropriations Bill.

U.S. woefully unprepared for bioattack, report says
by Rita Uplend on December 17, 2009

A recent report says that the recent spread of the H1N1 flu virus in the United States has shown that the medical care system is not prepared to handle the demands that a bioterrorist act would place upon it.

New York scores high on report over bio-preparedness
by Paul Tinder on December 16, 2009

New York has been named one of eight states to have met nine of 10 preparedness measures in the face of a pandemic, a first step in fighting a potential biological attack.

- British Royal Society calls for more realistic bio-attack exercises
by Pat Dulnier on December 16, 2009

Britain's Royal Society has warned that more realistic exercises need to be conducted to improve emergency responses to both chemical and biological attacks.

Anthrax scare at American Express headquarters
by Tina Redlup on December 15, 2009

The American Express headquarters at 3 World Financial Center in New York City had to evacuate three floors of the building following an anthrax scare recently.

Regional stockpiles could aid Europe in event of bioattack
by Paul Tinder on December 15, 2009

A plan to ensure Europe is prepared for a biologic attack has been laid out by Allen Shofe, senior vice president of public affairs at Emergent BioSoloutions, as part of the Security & Defence Agenda's "Raising Biopreparedness Levels in Europe" report.

Israel's Home Front Command simulates CBRN strike
by Ted Purlain on December 15, 2009

Israel's Home Front Command has begun joint exercises with Magen David Adom and the Shaare Tzedek Medical Center to prepare for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear missile attacks.

Buffalo area receives funds to fight bioterror
by Rita Uplend on December 14, 2009

The Buffalo area will get federal anti-terrorism funding in the amount of $6.58 million in fiscal 2010, it has been announced.

Israel to require infrastructure companies to purchase bio-protection suits
by Nick Rees on December 14, 2009

In the face of potential biological and chemical attacks, the Israel Defense Forces' Home Front Command requires national infrastructure companies to purchase active protection full-body suits to allow them to operate in contaminated zones.

Sen. Mark Pryor announces plans for bill that would make attacks eligible for federal emergency assistance
by Pat Dulnier on December 14, 2009

U.S. Sen. Mark Pryor has announced plans to file a bill that would make terrorist attacks, public health emergencies and man-made disasters eligible for federal emergency assistance.

Virtual USA to aid first responders in the event of attack
by Nick Rees on December 14, 2009

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano has announced a new information sharing initiative that will aid federal, state and local first responders in communicating better during emergencies, including biological and terror attacks.

D.C. subway to beef up biological, chemical security
by Nick Rees on December 11, 2009

Smiths Detection will provide Washington D.C.'s Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority with an upgrade of its PROTECT threat detection capabilities.

Combating bioterrorism needs to be a collaborative effort, ISBI founder says
by Paul Tinder on December 10, 2009

"I would argue bioterrorism is the most viable threat of an enormous magnitude, far more than a nuclear attack," Barry Kellman, president of the International Security & Biopolicy Institute said. "There are many threats.

Study highlights impact of pandemic on available blood supply
by Nick Rees on December 9, 2009

Data examined by a German research team has shown that the supply and demand for blood transfusions during a pandemic situation could cause a severe depletion in available transfusion units.

Newly revealed 2002 report questions border security from biological weapons
by Nick Rees on December 8, 2009

A recently revealed report, marked "sensitive," has surfaced as part of a load of documents uncovered by Rep. Rob Bishop (R-Utah), the Salt Lake Tribune has reported.

Australia company looking to take over biological weapon stopping fabric coating company
by Paul Tinder on December 4, 2009

ETW Corporation has begun the investigative process for taking over a United Kingdom-based company that carries the rights to a fabric coating process that protects soldiers against chemical and biological threats.

Homeland Security to study dispersion of biological weapons in Boston subway
by Ted Purlain on December 4, 2009

The U.S. Homeland Security Department will release harmless gases and dye tracers into Boston's subway system next week to study the circulation of airborne contaminants through public transit networks in the event of a biological or chemical attack.

Brookline, Mass., stages bioterror drill
by Pat Dulnier on December 3, 2009

More than 100 volunteers will take part in a rapid vaccination program in Brookline, Mass., this weekend to prepare the town for a serious pandemic situation or a bioterrorist attack.

Bioterror alert raised in Uganda
by Ted Purlain on December 3, 2009

Uganda's minister of health has announced that the nation's government has raised a full alert through its national disease surveillance network for any possible biological or chemical terrorist attack.

Virtual world to receive real world terror alerts
by Rita Uplend on November 30, 2009

Virtual world terrorist attacks are nothing new to people who spend time playing video games but, for those living in the state of New York, video game systems could now be used to disseminate warnings about real terrorist threats as well.

UAE officials given bioterrorism training
by Pat Dulnier on November 30, 2009

The United Arab Emirates is not currently facing a bioterrorism threat but it is not taking any chances.

Baxter International, Inc., investigates rapid vaccine producing U.S. facility
by Nick Rees on November 28, 2009

Baxter International, Inc., based in Deerfield, Illinois, has begun the investigation process to build a cell-based vaccine manufacturing plant in the U.S.

National Guard unit saves Anytown, U.S.A. from simulated attack
by Nick Rees on November 26, 2009

The Seventh Weapons of Mass Destruction Civil Support Team at Fort Leonard Wood has completed two days of chemical attack training, saving Anytown, U.S.A. in the process.

Chemical and biological attacks simulated in Israel
by Nick Rees on November 25, 2009

Israel has finished civilian exercises to aid in preparing its citizens for a chemical attack.

Pundits push for changes in creation of vaccines
by Rita Uplend on November 24, 2009

As the swine flu epidemic continues to steam ahead, leading pundits have begun to apply lessons learned from its spread to potential bioattacks.

South African government trained in identification of bioweapons, other WMDs
by Nick Rees on November 24, 2009

A workshop on identifying potential chemical, biological and nuclear weapons has been completed by South Africa's Department of Trade and Industry in collaboration with the National Nuclear Security Administration.

Australia strengthens background checks for bioweapons handlers
by Nick Rees on November 23, 2009

Australia will be enhancing its already stringent requirements to secure biological disease agents following the passing of a new measure.

Affect of new legislation on science community questioned
by Paul Tinder on November 20, 2009

The ability of U.S. laboratories to conduct important biodefense research could be impaired by mandates included in new federal legislation, the American Association for the Advancement of Science has announced.

Danish firm gets U.S. contract for freeze-dried smallpox vaccine
by Rita Uplend on November 19, 2009

The United States will pay the Danish biotechnology firm Bavarian Nordic as much as $40 million to adopt its smallpox vaccine so that it can be freeze-dried.

Grant goes to Purdue University to fund research into life cycle of potential bioweapon viruses
by Nick Rees on November 19, 2009

The life cycles of two virus types that could be used as biological weapons will be researched with funding from a National Institutes of Health agency with the hope of creating better treatments against them.

Critics say swine flu reaction shows lack of preparedness for biological attack
by Nick Rees on November 18, 2009

With H1N1 vaccinations efforts not going as smoothly as planned as lower-than-expected vaccine yields have reduced the number of doses available, questions have been raised about national preparation for biological attacks.

Congressional commission says threat of bioterrorism not being addressed
by Nick Rees on November 16, 2009

An interim report by the Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism states that the United States has failed to address the threat of bioterrorism.

Kent State University becomes 2nd in U.S. to offer biosafety training
by Pat Dulnier on November 12, 2009

KENT, Ohio — The increasing number of high-containment laboratories and the constant threat from emerging diseases and bioterrorism require more extensive biosafety training of the highest caliber.

Former Homeland Security secretary named Global Security leader at national lab
by Ted Purlain on November 11, 2009

LIVERMORE, Calif. — Penrose. C. “Parney” Albright, former assistant secretary at the Department of Homeland Security, has been named the principal associate director of Global Security at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

Suspicious envelope found at 6th U.N. mission
by Paul Tinder on November 11, 2009

NEW YORK — A sixth U.N. mission in New York has received an envelope filled with a suspicious white powder, Reuters reported Nov. 11.

GTCBio vaccine conference offers updates on biodefense policies
by Paul Tinder on November 9, 2009

WASHINGTON, D.C. — GTCbio’s seventh annual Vaccines: All Things Considered conference is scheduled for Nov 9-10 in Washington.

FEMA official encourages IAEM to engage the public
by Rita Uplend on November 7, 2009

ORLANDO, Fla. — FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate encouraged emergency managers to treat the public as a critical partner in disaster preparation.

Cox elected chairman of IAEM
by Pat Dulnier on November 7, 2009

Rick Cox, senior planner of IEM Inc., has been elected global board chairman of the International Association of Emergency Managers.

L'Heureux named U.S. president of IAEM
by Daniel Purt on November 7, 2009

ORLANDO, Fla. — Pamela L'Heureux, director of emergency management in Waterboro, Maine, became president of the U.S. Council of the International Association of Emergency Managers on Nov. 4.

Customs and Border Protection faulted for lack of preparation
by Mary J. Lewis on November 4, 2009

The inspector general for the U.S. Homeland Security Department last month faulted one DHS agency for not doing enough to prevent chemical and biological weapons from being smuggled into the country, the Global Security Newswire reported Nov. 3.

European Commission completing plan to bolster WMD defenses
by Rita Uplend on October 30, 2009

An action plan that seeks to strengthen European Union defenses against the threat of a WMD attack is being considered for enactment by the close of 2009, Europolitics Environment reported.

GSN names winners in 2009 Homeland Security Awards
by Ted Purlain on October 29, 2009

NEW YORK — GSN: Government Security News announced 38 winners of its 2009 Homeland Security Awards on Oct. 29.

Commission says U.S. failing to address urgent biosecurity issues
by Daniel Purt on October 27, 2009

The United States is failing to address its most urgent threat — biological proliferation and terrorism — concluded a report issued Oct. 21 by the bipartisan Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism.

Contract to supply 5 million doses of anthrax vaccine valued at $120 million
by Daniel Purt on May 5, 2005

GAITHERSBURG, Md. — Emergent BioSolutions Inc. announced that the Department of Health and Human Services has modified its contract and is purchasing an additional 5 million doses of BioThrax.

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