What if a Bioterrorist Attack Occurs?—A Survey on Citizen Preparedness in Aveiro, Portugal

Introduction: A bioterrorist attack is the intentional release of pathogenic micro-organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, or their toxins, with aim causing illness death in people, animals, plants. In this study, we investigated knowledge and practices related to bioterrorism preparedness Central Portugal. Methods: descriptive cross-sectional study was performed a convenience sample population Aveiro, Portugal, assess about bioterrorism, self-perceived preparation act case pet owners’ preparation. An online validated questionnaire completed by 198 participants from January February 2020. Results: 46.0% respondents answered that they knew nothing had never heard possibility attacks. an attack, 77.8% did not consider themselves prepared act, 62.1% know how use personal protective equipment. More than half (60.6%) were familiar local emergency response system catastrophes/bioterrorist Almost all (95.6%) assigned high importance drinking water food for pets, but only 22.9% attributed carrier boxes, item essential cat evacuation. Conclusion: This first survey kind Portugal concerning citizens animals. Results suggest Portuguese limited, people have inadequate attack. These results reinforce further studies better understand existing gaps citizens, strengthen need adopt One Health concept plans emphasize crucial role health education prevention.