FDA bioterrorism Web site widens its scope

FDA Consumer, July-August, 2003 by John Henkel

The FDA's bioterrorism Web site is now called "counterterrorism" to reflect its recently broadened range of information sources on other aspects of terrorism. Originally launched in 2001 as a response to the anthrax attacks of that year, the site initially focused on bioweapons. Now it offers information on nuclear terrorism, including two fact sheets explaining the use of potassium iodide and Prussian blue, products that can be used in response to radiation contamination. The site also contains a summary of the FDA's role in various counterterrorism programs, such as cosmetics, veterinary products, and toxicological research.

At www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/bioterrorism.html, the site also functions as a gateway to counterterrorism information from other government sources, such as the Department of Homeland Security, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Federal Trade Commission. For example, one link takes you to tips on how to avoid online marketers of bogus counterterrorism products. Another gets you to advice on what to do if you find a suspicious piece of mail.

The FDA manages another Web site that explains the many counterterrorism actions the agency is taking under the Public Health Security and Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Act of 2002. It is at www.fda.gov/oc/bioterrorism/ bioact.html.

John Henkel is a member of the FDA's Website Management Staff.