Emerging Infectious Diseases

Bioterrorism and Preparedness

The intentional release of viruses, bacteria, or other germs that may sicken or kill people, livestock, or crops is a biological attack or bioterrorism. One of the most commonly used agents in a biological attack is Bacillus anthracis, the bacteria that cause anthrax. Bioterrorism means terrorist activity involving the deliberate release or spread of biological agents. These agents are bacteria, viruses, insects, fungi or toxins and are, as in biological warfare, naturally occurring or humanly modified.