Chapter 9 : Bioterrorism Outbreaks

Abstract:

In the past several hundred years, biological weapons (BWs) have been used occasionally as part of a military strategy whose main purpose was to incapacitate or kill opposing troops and civilian populations. Plague, anthrax, smallpox, and tularemia have been used with limited success, and in some cases, the biological weapons have infected those who intentionally released the agents. The actual use of biological weapons has been limited to small sects and individual extremists, who have used them to advance their political or religious views. This section focuses on understanding how the pathogens used as biological weapons are transmitted and how the diseases they cause are treated and prevented. An understanding of these diseases is the first step in developing effective strategies to identify the release of a bioterrorism agent and to provide a rapid and effective response. A table illustrates infectious agents developed for use as bioweapons. A part of this section is devoted to reference material on pathogens and diseases involved in bioterrorism. The section discusses various outbreaks, including those of anthrax, brucellosis, tularemia, and hemorrhagic fever. Each outbreak is discussed in details and information concludes with questions and student activity.