Biological agents prophylaxis

C. Classification of Biological Agents. Taxonomic classification of biological agents is important in terms of detection, identification, prophylaxis, and treatment. Biological agents which may be used as weapons can be classified as follows ... 

Most industrialized nations manufacture equipment and materials necessary for the production, containment, purification, and quality control of these materials. Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Japan, the Netherlands, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, the Ukraine, the UK, and the United States are the most advanced countries in the techniques of manufacturing large quantities of biological agents and protective vaccines and materials required for prophylaxis and therapy. See Appendix D, Table 5 for a list of Biological Material Production Technology Parameters... 

Early detection and warning is the first line of defense against biological agents. Detection and identification of biological agents allow commanders, (citizens or targets) to take steps to avoid contamination, to determine the appropriate protection for continued operations, and to initiate proper prophylaxis and therapy to minimize... 

Chemical/Biological Agent detecdon/Destruction Human Performance/Healdi Monitor/Prophylaxis... 

Post-exposure prophylaxis is the practice of providing treatment immediately after a suspected or confirmed biological agent release in order to attempt to limit the duration, severity, incidence and transmission of subsequent disease in asymptomatic individuals. 

Current recommendations for prescribing appropriate post-exposure prophylaxis following deliberate biological agent release incidents are shown in Table 4.32. Updates can be found via the HPA website www.hpa.org.uk... 

Patient group directions (PGDs) are available for the prescribing of post-exposure prophylaxis and treatment for large numbers of people following the release of certain biological agents. Updates can be found at the DH website www.dh.gov.uk... 

Since its introduction several decades ago for the occasional treatment of "psychotic excitement", lithium is still a mainstay in the treatment and prophylaxis of manic-depressive disorders [1]. The biologic basis for the clinical efficacy of lithium is not completely known. Interestingly, the agent relieves both mania and depression, states which appear to be opposites. Its therapeutic range, however, is narrow, and even at the lowest effective dosage, some unwanted side effects may occur [2]. Serum levels above 1.5 mEq/L often result in acute intoxication, which may... 

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