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Public Response to an Anthrax Attack: A Multiethnic Perspective
| Content Provider | PubMed Central |
|---|---|
| Author | Steelfisher, Gillian K. Blendon, Robert J. Brulé, Amanda S. Ben-porath, Eran N. Ross, Laura J. Atkins, Bret M. |
| Abstract | The 2001 anthrax attacks emphasized the need to develop outreach that would more effectively support racial/ethnic minority populations during a bioterrorism incident. Given the importance of antibiotic prophylaxis in a future anthrax attack, it should be a priority to better support racial/ethnic minorities in mass dispensing programs. To examine the needs and perspectives of racial/ethnic minorities, this study used a nationally representative poll of 1,852 adults, including 1,240 whites, 261 African Americans, and 282 Hispanics. The poll examined public reactions to a “worst-case scenario” in which cases of inhalation anthrax are discovered without an identified source and the entire population of a city or town is asked to receive antibiotic prophylaxis within 48 hours. Findings suggest willingness across all racial/ethnic groups to comply with recommendations to seek prophylaxis at dispensing sites. However, findings also indicate possible barriers for racial/ethnic minorities, including greater concern about pill safety and multiple attacks as well as lesser knowledge about inhalation anthrax. Across all racial/ethnic groups, roughly half would prefer to receive antibiotics at mass dispensing sites rather than through the US Postal Service. People in racial/ethnic minority groups were more likely to say this preference stems from a desire to speak with staff or to exchange medication formulation or type. Findings suggest the need for tailored outreach to racial/ethnic minorities through, for example, emphasis on key messages and enhanced understandability in communications, increased staff for answering questions in relevant dispensing sites, and long-term trust building with racial/ethnic minority communities. |
| Related Links | http://dx.doi.org/10.1089/bsp.2012.0041 |
| Ending Page | 411 |
| Page Count | 11 |
| Starting Page | 401 |
| File Format | |
| ISSN | 15387135 |
| e-ISSN | 1557850X |
| Journal | Biosecurity and bioterrorism : biodefense strategy, practice, and science |
| Issue Number | 4 |
| Volume Number | 10 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher Date | 2012-12-01 |
| Access Restriction | Open |
| Subject Keyword | Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health Health(social science) Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law Research in Higher Education |
| Content Type | Text |
| Resource Type | Article |
| Subject | Health (social science) Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law |
