effect of bioterrorism training through lecture and educational pamphlet on knowledge of medical staff in hospitals of iranshahr, iran in 2010

background: in the absence of specific logistics supply, a bioterrorism attack using smallpox virus, including pollution of water and food can devastate the national health foundation, and many of the patients and ordinary people may die. one of the most important ways to deal with this issue for bioterrorism attack is enhancement of awareness and attitude of medical staff to identify and react quickly to deal with these events. this study assessed the effect of bioterrorism training through lectures and educational pamphlet on knowledge and attitudes of medical staff. methods: in a quasi-experimental study, 100 health personnel were selected through the census method. a questionnaire was used to collect the data. a group of participants was given educational pamphlets and the other group was provided with 2-hour lectures. second step was done a month later. findings: the results of the study showed that the average scores of knowledge increased in both groups after the training which was statistically significant (p < 0.05). conclusion: bioterrorism training had a positive effect on knowledge and attitudes of medical staff in both methods but it was more effective in lecture group.