Epidemics, public health policies and their impact on biodefense and preparedness

This dissertation describes epidemics of the past fifteen years and the public health policies that play an important role in biodefense. Epidemics have the power to change the scope public interest and thus alter policies and emergency management protocols. Examination of the critical public health capacities required to respond to outbreaks are important for biodefense preparedness. This dissertation looks at the pathogens and the outbreaks that have occurred on a macro-level to analyze the results of each outbreak and what was learned. The goal of this research is to use historical data to analyze gaps in our biodefense preparedness. Charts were developed to show commonalities in the response efforts, lessons learned, and policies from various outbreaks. Parallel analysis of trends and policies from six different epidemics reviled gaps in current policies and preparedness efforts. The findings of the dissertation may be used as guidance for the focus of further policies regarding preparedness for a bio-terrorism event.