In the recent past the HPA has supplied bioresponse teams for incidents involving two fatalities that resulted from inhalational anthrax due to Bacillus anthracis in Scotland and in Hackney, London.

In addition CEPR can provide advice concerning outbreaks in hospitals, cruise ships and community care homes and to discuss sampling methods and decontamination strategies. 

Decontamination of personnel is also an important issue post-sampling, to ensure that all microbiological risks have been removed.

Advice and Consultancy

The biosafety unit offers a range of services to clients to assist them with issues that arise as a result of contamination by hazardous microorganisms.

Training

Training courses are regularly organised on handling CL3 and CL4 microorganisms for internal and external customers.

• Biosafety: Introduction to the Principles and Practices of Working at Containment Level 3
• Biosafety publications in bioresponse activities

For more information contact:
The Biosafety unit
Centre for Emergency Preparedness and Response
Porton Down
Salisbury
Wiltshire
SP4 0JG
email: biosafety@hpa.org.uk
Telephone: 44 (0)1980 612392