The World Health Organization warned in its 2007 report that infectious diseases are emerging at a rate that has not been seen before. Since the 1970s about 40 infectious diseases have been discovered, most recently COVID-19. With people traveling much more frequently and far greater distances than in the past, living in more densely populated areas, and coming into closer contact with wild animals the potential for emerging diseases to spread rapidly and cause global pandemics is a major concern. There is also the a concern about the deliberate introduction of harmful substances into the environment.
Health Care Providers must be prepared for the unexpected. There is a real concern due to our location and the chemical plants within our area that we might be a target for bioterrorism. This presentation will give an overview of the 6 agents of highest concern that might be used in a biological attack: smallpox, anthrax, plague, botulism, tularemia, and viral hemorrhagic fevers. There will also be a discussion about emerging diseases that have shown an increase in incidence within the last few years including: Leprosy, Polio, Zika virus, Hantavirus, Measles, Chickenpox, COVID-19.
Background:
Individuals who have experienced separation from hospitalized family members due to the "no visitor policies" during the Covid-19 pandemic will be asked to participate in this qualitative study to elicit their perceptions.
Method:
This study received Lamar IRB approval (FY21-15). Potential participants will be recruited through personal contacts and referrals. Interviews will be conducted by the investigators at a time and a place convenient to the participants. This may be over the telephone or via Zoom. A PI developed interview guide will be used. Interviews will be audiotaped and transcribed by the investigators. Using the Colaizzi method of analysis, themes will be derived. Approximately 20 participants will be recruited.
Results:
Data collection in progress. Analysis and Dissemination efforts to begin Spring of 2022 SP 21 SU 2021 FA 21 SP 22 /---------------------/---------------------/-----------------------/----------------------------/ Data Review & Data Collection & Data Analysis & Paper/Proposal Submission & IRB Approval Analysis Writing Revisions - Conference Presentation