85 - Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Quarantine

ABSTRACT

Quarantine is a public health measure used to control the spread of contagious disease or environmental toxins within a population. Quarantine can be a helpful tactic in the setting of chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear disasters. The success of quarantine demands tailoring preventative measures to the specific features of a given exposure. The criteria for initiating quarantine is clearly delineated in federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies. Successful quarantine and mitigation of risk depends on a complex interplay between first responders, affected individuals, and local, state, and federal services and authorities. As was seen in the current COVID-19 pandemic, there are many potential pitfalls that can be encountered during initiation and sustaining a quarantine effort.