CDC has been designated as the lead agency for upgrading national public health capabilities for responding to biological terrorism. Many biological agents could be used to attack civilians, however, only a few, such as smallpox virus, have the ability to cause illness or panic to the extent that existing medical and public health systems would be overwhelmed. CDC has issued a plan for responding to a smallpox outbreak that provides information to public health officers on how to respond to a case of smallpox in their community. The plan includes information on tracing the victim's family and other contacts and how to establish quarantines, set up vaccination clinics and handle the news media. The plan dates back to 1972, but was recently revised to reflect new concerns that smallpox could be used in a bioterrorist attack. The plan will be updated as needed. Full story at: http://www.govexec.com/dailyfed/1101/112701m1.htm.