Bioterrorism

Bioterrorism can be defined as the deliberate release of biological agents with the intention of infecting civilians for belligerent purposes. These agents are usually naturally occurring microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi; however, they can also be engineered to be more deadly, drug resistant, or easier to transmit. Bioterrorists may spread disease through air, water, and food, and from person to person, infecting humans, animals, or plants. Such an attack on humans with an agent causing a disease such as smallpox or botulism could lead to severe illness and possibly death and could result in widespread fear among the public. Furthermore, it could result in significant economic, social, and political damage as critical infrastructures struggle to handle the effects of disease on the population. ...