Building Civilian-Military Collaboration to Enhance Response Following an Anthrax Release

In the event of a large scale bioterrorist incident, essential public health capabilities could be significantly overwhelmed, necessitating assistance from the Department of Defense (DoD) to decrease civilian morbidity and mortality. The unique rapid deployability of military personnel can provide the readily available logistical support, medical expertise and man power needed to augment local and state resources. Despite enhanced funding to the public health sector's preparedness mission since 9/11 and the 2001 anthrax attacks, significant concerns persist regarding their response capabilities to a catastrophic event like an anthrax attack. This paper provides basic information to civilian health and emergency response agencies regarding potential local, National Guard and federal DoD resources available in the event of a deliberate release of aerosolized anthrax. Additionally, this paper suggests steps to develop collaborative civilian-military relationships and coalitions. By enhancing these alliances, the response to a catastrophic event, including the timely and sustainable dispensing of medical countermeasures, can be improved and the preparedness of the Nation strengthened.