International Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology

ISSN 2169-3048

International Journal of Biochemistry and Biotechnology ISSN 2169-3048 Vol. 8 (8), pp. 001-010, August, 2019. © International Scholars Journals

Review

Developing contaminations and bioterrorism crises: A case study in Nigeria

*Funmilayo Odukoya, Sade E. Tinibu and E. A. Ifeanyichukwu

Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Accepted 18 March, 2019

Abstract

Emerging infectious disease outbreaks and bioterrorism attacks warrant urgent public health and medical responses. Response plans for these events may include use of medications and vaccines for which the effects on pregnant women and fetuses are unknown. Recent experiences with outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome, monkey pox and anthrax, as well as response planning for bioterrorism and pandemic influenza, illustrate the challenges of making recommendations about medical interventions for victims. Experience with bioterrorism attacks (anthrax), viroterrorism attacks (arena viruses) and emergency response preparedness (smallpox vaccination) has been gained. Understanding the physiology of the body, the factors that influence the teratogenic potential of medications and vaccines and the infection control measures that may stop an outbreak will aid planners in making recommendations for care during large-scale infectious disease emergencies.

Key words: Bioterrorism, emerging infections, emergence preparedness, pathogens, viroterrorism.