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The National Terrorism Advisory System, or NTAS, replaces the color-coded Homeland Security Advisory System (HSAS). This new system will more effectively communicate information about terrorist threats by providing timely, detailed information to the public, government agencies, first responders, airports and other transportation hubs, and the private sector. It recognizes that Americans all share responsibility for the nation’s security, and should always be aware of the heightened risk of terrorist attack in the United States and what they should do.

In early 2002, NIAID developed a Strategic Plan for Biodefense Research at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID).  As part of the implementation of the recommendations outlined in the Strategic Plan, NIAID convened two panels of experts to provide advice and guidance on specific areas of research. The first panel prioritized NIAID research plans for the Category A Priority Pathogens. A second group, the NIAID Expert Panel on Immunity and Biodefense, was convened to focus on research related to the innate immune factors important for host protection against potential bioterrorist pathogens (see summary at http://www.niaid.nih.gov/ publications/pdf/biodimmunpan.pdf).   Read More »

As concern grows about the use of biological agents in acts of terrorism or war, Federal health agencies are evaluating and accelerating measures to protect the public from the health consequences of such an attack. In 1996, when NIAID made public its Research Agenda for Emerging Diseases, intentional introduction of infectious agents was not discussed explicitly. However, recent events have reminded us that bioterrorism can be a major contributor in disease emergence.   Read More »