Refection, response and preparedness vs. agroterrorism
2008
Sison, J.A.
Two categories of hazardous substances can be used for agroterrorism: disease agent and chemical agents. This agents can be disseminated in several ways, it could be through air, food, and beverages, and water supply. Foreign animal disease (FADs), which are diseases active outside of the Philippines, could be destructive agroterrorism disease agents. In general, Zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted between animals and humans, pose the greatest threat to public health. Agricultural workers are at risk of being infected with zoonotic diseases because they work closely with livestock. Consumers can also contact these diseases by eating infected food products. Although plant diseases are unlikely to cause illness in humans, they can inflict severe damage by reducing the food supply for animals and people, and by causing trade and economics losses. Given the seriousness of animal and plant diseases and the devastating impact they could have on the publics' health and safety, rapid detection of and response to an agriculture disease outbreak are critical. Chemical agents (e.g. Sarin) can also be used. These agents can be used to harm or kill farm animals and contaminate animal or plant products intended for human consumption. The Department of Agriculture, through its BAI and BPI [Bureau of Animal Industry and Bureau of Plant Industry], is responsible for managing and monitoring animal and plant health in the Philippines. The DOH-BFAD [Department of Health- Bureau of Food and Drug], on the other hand, is responsible for the safety of food and drugs sold to consumers. Increased education and training efforts include partnerships among public health agencies, veterinary schools and livestock producers. Agriculture affects all communities. In order to protect human and animal life and to mitigate damage in the event of an attack, it is vital for the public health workforce to understand and prepare for agroterrorism.
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