THE NEW JERSEY CENTER FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PREPAREDNESS AT UMDNJ

UMDNJ - SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

>>>NJCPHP News PHlash <<<

JANUARY 15  -  JANUARY 31 2005

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PREPAREDNESS NEWS:

[1] Whitman: GOP foiled security efforts - The Star Ledger (1/28/05)
In her new book, “It’s My Party Too” former New Jersey Governor and USEPA head Christie Whitman alleges her attempt to implement chemical plant security regulations was sabotaged.  New Jersey, a major chemical manufacturing and transportation center is highly vulnerable to a chemical attack.  Senator Jon Corzine (D-NJ), plans to re-introduce his strict chemical plant bill, in addition to new hazardous chemicals transportation standards.
http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/jersey/index.ssf?/base/news-8/1106925338161590.xml

[2] Biowar: U.N. to expand bioterror powers? - The Washington Times (1/27/2005)
In it’s report, “A More Secure World: Our Shared Responsibility” the U.N. Secretary General’s High Panel on Threats, Challenges and Change set forth recommendations to the U.N. Security Council and WHO to establish cooperative procedures for intervention during a disease outbreak, natural or manmade. Currently, the WHO is not sanctioned to enter a nation without the country’s permission; the panel’s recommendations include a mandate for countries to open borders during a disease outbreak to U.N. health officials for investigatory purposes. http://www.washtimes.com/upi-breaking/20050127-014400-9949r.htm

[3] U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Homeownership Alliance  Release Emergency Preparedness Guide for Homeowners - U.S. Newswire (1/26/2005)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security in collaboration with The Homeowners Alliance released “Emergency Preparedness Guide” an essential resource for homeowners in preparing their families and homes in case of an emergency, based on guidelines set forth in the DHS’s “Ready” campaign. The guide is being distributed through the National Association of Realtors and Habitat for Humanity International.
http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=4315

[4]  Organizing for Victory: Proposals for Building a Regional Homeland Security Structure - The Heritage Foundation (1/21/05)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is currently working to establish a structure system for the interaction of the DHS with state, local, and private entities in response to a public health emergency.  This effort will be based on the National Response Plan and National Incident Management System, providing an all-hazards, coordinated approach in responding to potential incidents.
http://www.heritage.org/Research/HomelandDefense/bg1817.cfm

[5]  After successful test, mollusk could aid war on bioterrorism - USA Today (1/19/05)
The quahog, a clam, has been found to contain an enzyme capable of neutralizing enzymes present in the botulism toxin.  The shellfish was injected with one milligram of the toxin, capable of killing 1,000 humans and a potential agent of bioterrorism. Scientists are attempting to extract the enzyme-like molecule from the quahog and modify it for human use, as a potential antidote to botulin poisoning.

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The New Jersey Center for Public Health Preparedness at UMDNJ, UMDNJ-School of Public Health does not claim responsibility for accuracy of facts and information presented.  All opinions expressed are those of the original authors and do not represent the views of NJCPHP staff or affiliates.  NJCPHP News PHlash, a bi-weekly news bulletin, is distributed free of charge electronically, with the intention of sharing information of interest and value to our subscribers.