AGENTS OF BIOTERRORISM

 

Bioterrorism agents can be spread through the environment by way of air, water, or food. They are categorized according to ease of transmittance and severity of effects. Although all agents are harmful and require immediate attention, highest priority is given to those that belong to Category A. Agents that are classified in Categories B and C are of second and third highest priority, respectively.

  Category A

  • Easily spread
  • Result in high death rates and potential for major public health impact
  • Require action for public health preparedness
  • Examples: Anthrax (shown on left), Plague, Botulism, Small Pox...

Category B

  • Moderately easy to spread
  • Result in moderate illness rates and low death rates
  • Require advancements to the Center of Disease Control's monitoring systems
  • Examples: Brucellosis (shown on left), Melioidosis, Glanders...

  Category C

  • Consist of emerging pathogens that could be engineered for mass spread in future
  • Easily available, produced, and spread
  • Have potential for high morbidity and mortality rates
  • Examples: Emerging infectious disease like the nipah virus (shown on left) and hantavirus

 

 For a complete list of types, symptoms, treatment, and other information, visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention's A-Z list of Bioterrorism Agents/ Diseases.

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