Number: RS21557
Title: Monkeypox Technical Background and Outbreak Implications for Bioterrorism Preparedness
Authors: Dana A. Shea and Frank Gottron, Resources, Science, and Industry Division; and Holly Harvey, Domestic Social Policy Division 
Abstract: Monkeypox, a viral disease related to smallpox, has appeared in humans in the Midwest. Although officials do not believe that this outbreak is bioterrorism, the delay between the initial presentation of an unusual disease and the notification to the federal government has raised concerns regarding the state of bioterrorism preparedness. Possible issues related to this outbreak include the regulatory process that allowed import of diseased animals; how efficient the public health system response has been in alerting the government to potential health emergencies; and whether the monkeypox outbreak provides an opportunity to evaluate recent efforts to increase public health preparedness and the state of bioterrorism preparedness.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated June 27, 2003