Security Increased at UK Hospital Due to Terrorist Threat

LEXINGTON, Ky. (KT) – In the interest of safety, the University of Kentucky Police Department is increasing security at UK Hospital as a precautionary measure, after the American Hospital Association (AHA) and Health-ISAC issued an alert about a social media post they observed making threats about a multi-city terrorist attack on hospitals.

According to UK, the post claimed the terrorist group ISIS-K (Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham–Khorasan Province) is actively planning simultaneous attacks on hospitals in the coming weeks. It states that the primary targets are mid-tier cities with low-security facilities.

In a joint statement, the AHA and Health-Isac noted, “At this time, no information is available to either corroborate or discount this threat’s credibility. Generally, foreign terrorist groups do not publicize their upcoming attacks. However, this widely viewed post may encourage others to engage in malicious activity directed toward the health sector, so threats of this nature should be taken seriously. Security teams should review emergency management plans and spread awareness of the potential threat internally.”

UK noted “There is no credible threat to our campus or health care facilities at this time. We are actively working with federal authorities and are monitoring this situation closely.”

“Having a publicly visible security presence can help mitigate the risk of being a potential target,” AHA and Health ISAC stated. “With the information claiming multiple simultaneous targets, they would likely select health sector facilities with visibly weak security and conduct prior planning to coordinate the attacks. It is common practice for individuals contemplating targeted acts of violence to conduct pre-attack surveillance and reconnaissance. Having a visible security presence can mitigate being chosen as a target during the planning phase of an attack.”

UK added, “If you see something, say something. At UK and UK HealthCare, UK Police and emergency management officials routinely conduct threat assessments and remain vigilant in monitoring suspicious activity. Please report any tips to the UK Police Department at 859-257-8573. In the event of an emergency, dial 911.”