Viruses and the Threat of Bioterrorism

Abstract

Viruses can be used by both States and terrorists as biological weapons, but using them on a wide scale requires considerable technical knowledge and facilities. Many viruses can be spread by aerosols, potentially infecting large populations. Various agents have been proposed as potential weapons, but smallpox has received the greatest attention and was successfully weaponised by the Soviet Union. Smallpox vaccine has been stockpiled and new drugs and vaccines developed. Other potential agents suggested in the literature include Ebola and Marburg viruses, although these are very difficult to produce in quantity. Terrorists could however use any agent and rarely follow textbook scenarios. In response to the threat of bioterrorism a substantial research and public health infrastructure has been created, which could be useful in dealing with natural events. The main defence is education of clinicians and the public as the greatest effect of these weapons is fear and panic. Key Concepts: Viruses are potential biological weapons, and many viruses are infectious by the aerosol route even if they are normally transmitted by vectors. Smallpox has received most attention as a potential biological threat. Knowledge, skills, research and public health infrastructure are the best defence for bioterrorism. Standard principles of infection control and public health apply to bioterrorist incidents. Nature is the greatest bioterrorist and the infrastructure developed for deliberate acts supports real events. Keywords: bioterrorism; smallpox; haemorrhagic fever; preparedness; vaccine; antiviral; aerosol