Li-Pin
Chang, MD; Tzong-Luen Wang, MD, PhD; Hang
Chang, MD, PhD
|
Abstract
--To investigate the laboratory preparedness for bioterrorism,
we studied the laboratories in 7 medical centers in Taipei that
were implemented for SARS and compared with the laboratory requirements
by the criteria of bioterrorism preparedness. Of seven medical centers in Taipei,
one was categorized into Level A, four
were categorized into Level C laboratories and two Level B ones.
There were 100% of the laboratories possessing the capacity of bacterial
and viral cultures, 100% microscopic examinations for all specimens,
44% electromicroscopic examinations, 100% serology
such as FA and ELISA, 71% PCR, 71% HPLC, 86% GC, 100% general requirements,
and 100% pathologic examination. Among them, one was categorized
into Level A, five Level C laboratories and one Level B. The availabilities
of laboratory equipments were the same as described. The major pitfall
for all laboratories was the lack of personnel training for common
agents for bioterrorism such as anthrax,
smallpox and rabies. In conclusion, our survey revealed that the
laboratory requirements were similar for both bioterrorism
preparedness and SARS response. The laboratories in the medical
centers could be considered to be designed under the ¡§dual
use¡¨ model. |