Public health preparedness is a new discipline created in response to terrorist threats and globalized infectious diseases and food supply issues. Katz (health policy and emergency medicine, George Washington U. School of Public Health and Human Services, Washington, DC) introduces the field, its evolution, scope, roles and careers. Chapters define types of natural and unnatural threats, and responses to them; the federal preparedness infrastructure created in the wake of 9/11/01, e.g., the National Response Framework; and national and international approaches to addressing biological threats. The text includes boxed information on preparedness strategies and programs, discussion questions, and a glossary. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)