Anthrax Attack!

By Kari A. Mergenhagen

Abstract

This case study presents a fictitious bio-terrorist plan to release anthrax in the United States. Students are assigned character roles and, through research, role-playing, and teamwork, develop a plan to minimize or avert the attack. The case is appropriate for courses designed for health professionals, general biology courses, and social science courses.

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Date Posted

01/27/2003

Overview

Objectives

Explain the pathogenesis and mode of anthrax transmission in humans and animals.
Understand the difference between naturally occurring anthrax and weapon grade anthrax.
Recognize the importance of a team approach in combating acts of terrorism.
Distinguish the roles and responsibilities of various personnel involved in averting or minimizing the effects of biological warfare.
Identify the complexities of treatment, cleanup, and methods to minimize the adverse affects of a biological attack.
Consider the devastation, physical destruction, and economic impact of a bioterrorist attack.

Keywords

Biological warfare; bioterrorism; terrorist attack; biological weapons; Bacillus anthraci; anthrax

Subject Headings

Biology (General)

Public Health

Science (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

FORMAT

PDF

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

LANGUAGE

English

TYPE/METHODS

Dilemma/Decision, Discussion, Role-Play, Student Presentations

Teaching Notes & Answer Key

Teaching Notes

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Answer Key

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