The Role of Healthcare System in National Security and Sustainable DevelopmentPart 3: Biological Threats and National Security

The development of biological sciences, microbiology, biotechnology and genetic engineering, industrial applications of microorganisms, has posed a terrorist threat. Along with the production, development and use of biological weapons for military, bioterrorist, agro-terrorist (against plant resources), and ecotourism (against economic resources) purposes, the epidemic of some infectious diseases has endangered human security. The subject of this study is to survey biological threats to the health of individuals and society and the phenomenon of bioterrorism, its relationship with national security and ways to deal with it by the passive defense approach.

This study was conducted by descriptive-analytical method, using literature review and cyberspace and using the experiences of authors and experts.

Threats of infectious diseases (AIDS, SARS, Corona, influenza, typhoid, leishmaniasis, etc.), biological terrorist attacks and bioterrorism are considered security issues. These health threats, which have national, regional and international security dimensions, and ways to deal with them, before, during and after incidents, have been studied with a passive defense approach. Measures taken before the biological attack, consolidation of infrastructure, enhancement of threat response capabilities, lead to resilience and reduction of vulnerability to biological threats. The passive defense as a peaceful and preventive method without the use of weapons by using new techniques and methods of detection, protection and safety, elimination and repulsion of pollution, is the best way to reduce vulnerability to biological threats. Along with Passive defense, the protection and security organizations before, during and after a bioterrorist attack, play a constructive and undeniable role in controlling, inhibiting and countering biological threats.

Preparedness, forecasting, prevention, the resilience of manpower and endangered structures, detection, protection and safety, elimination, and disposal of pollution are strategies to reduce vulnerability to biological threats. Preventing bioterrorist operations is more important and better than dealing with them after the operation. Dealing with the spread of a bioterrorist agent requires spending time and budget, the equipment, and facilities. Passive defense is the most effective and efficient approach to dealing with biological threats and protecting national security. The key and pivotal role in the country's biological defense is played by the country's passive defense organization. In this organization, it is necessary to integrate human and veterinary public health monitoring, as well as the coordination of scientists and health service providers.