The Handbook of Bioterrorism and Disaster Medicine was created because we felt there was no effective handbook that covered the breadth and scope of this field. Our book incorporates concise chapters, on topics and diseases with abundant web-based references, and careful organization. We hope that all healthcare providers interested or involved with the care of victims of bioterrorism or disaster — including prehos- tal care providers, medical students, nurses, physicians, and those involved with p- lic health or humanitarian aide — find it indispensable. We wish to thank the numerous authors who contributed to this handbook. Throughout the book, consistency of style and depth provide the reader with easy and reliable access to the vast amount of information needed to understand, prepare for, and deal with a bioterrorist attack or disaster. The chapters in this book have been based on scientific studies and data when available. However, more research is ne- ed to more fully understand these complex events.