Terrorism is widely regarded as premeditated violence by clandestine agents against civilians, usually intended to influence public policy. As such, the credible threats of terrorism are often more important to both terrorists and victims than the injury or damage done. Bioterrorism uses biological agents as terrorist weapons. Infectious agents are most prominent but chemical toxins can also be used.
It is becoming widely agreed that public health activities and agencies have an essential role in discovering and responding to the direct threats of bioterrorism. The most obvious activities are the identification and eradication of biological agents and treatment of victims. Quieter activities are planning and preparation for terrorist attacks, including monitoring of their effects. Statistical systems and decision-making have an important role in planning and monitoring for terrorism. Terrorism carries significant and substantial threats to our emotional and mental well-being, both after a terrorist incident and every day. Previous research shows that existing statistical systems can make a valuable contribution as monitors of the effects of terrorism on the public's health. These include such surveys as the National Health Interview Survey and the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Illustrations will use surveys conducted after the Oklahoma bombing in 1995 and the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks in 2001.