Together with experts from law enforcement, public health and international organizations, INTERPOL has developed a Bioterrorism Incident Preplanning and Response Guide (BIRG). It includes information on bioterrorism, preparedness activities and operational response, in order to assist member states in addressing the unique aspects of intentional biological threats.

A summary of the contents

• Descriptions of biological agents;
• Means of acquisition and production;
• Intelligence indicators;
• Law enforcement interaction with public health bodies;
• Response priorities;
• Safety issues and protective equipment for personnel;
• Operational response: incident command, hazard assessment, containment, evidence recovery, liaison with public health authorities.

How to obtain a copy

• Online: authorized users can consult the guide directly on the restricted INTERPOL website;
• PDF format: please contact your National Central Bureau to obtain an electronic version of the guide;
• Hard copy: you can request a printed copy from your National Central Bureau. Please note that INTERPOL is revising the current guide and copies are therefore limited in number.