Population´s Awareness in Case of Epidemic Infection Herd Occurrence This diploma work deals with the problem of biological weapons. It consists of a theoretical and a practical part. The theoretical part describes biological weapons in general, the options of their use and the principles of population´s protection. Further, I focussed on selected diseases which are considered to present biological weapons. The information I acquired is based on technical literature, the internet and the current legislation. The practical part of my diploma work deals with the opinions and attitudes of the Czech population concerning biological weapons and the potential risks of being exposed to biological weapons. Further I tried to find out whether the Czech population is aware of the basic issues of the problem in question. At the same time I focussed on comparing the state of awareness in the age groups of the economically active population on the one side and senior citizens on the other side. The research results have shown that the issue of biological weapons tends not to be appreciated adequately and that the opinions found in both age groups do not show significant differences. Further, an analysis of the acquired data has shown that the rate of awareness of the basic issues of the problem is low and that the population lacks sufficient information how to respond to a biological weapon attack in case of suspected assault. Differences in the level of awareness in the studied age groups have not been confirmed. The research has also shown that the respondents feel they do not have access to sources of sufficient and adequate information on biological weapons. Based on the acquired facts I have written a brochure providing information on biological weapons as well as on the recommended measures in case of suspected exposure. I have also elaborated a proposal concerning the implementation of the project and the distribution of the brochure.

No / Scientific and technological change in the life sciences is currently transforming the problem of preventing biological warfare and biological terrorism. This transformation will demand a radical and rigorous new approach to biochemical arms control, for which the existing prohibition regimes for chemical and biological weapons are necessary but insufficient building blocks. Examples from the areas of immunology, neurosciences, and the neuroendocrine-immune system are used to show the magnitude of the problem. This book will conclude with outlining additional measures required to control biochemical weapons in the 2lst Century.