Bioterrorism evidence

Until October 2001, no deaths from bioterrorism were reported in the U.S. On September 11, 2001, after the attacks on New York City and Washington, the Centers for Disease Control recommended that the nation increase its surveillance for unusual disease occurrences or clusters, asserting that they could be sentinel indicators of bioterrorist attacks. As predicted, cases of anthrax were reported in Florida, New York City, the District of Columbia, and New Jersey. Over the years, it has become evident that not only is biological warfare attractive to governments, it is equally attractive to terrorist cells because the agents are relatively inexpensive and easy to make. 

We cannot be eonfident that an attack combining the sophistication and ruthlessness of 9/11 with the use of nuclear weapons will not happen. As far as we know, however, no terrorist group has the competence to build nuclear weapons and an element of scepticism is warranted about the capacity of non-state actors to manufacture nuclear weapons undetected by the intelligence agencies of the technologically advanced countries. Nor is there any evidence so far to suggest that nuclear weapons have been transferred to terrorist organizations. Bioterrorism... 

FDA has responded to the threat of terrorism with a unique approach towards the development of biopharmaceuticais intended to counter the adverse effects of chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear substances [83]. In many instances, efficacy trials in humans cannot be ethically performed (e.g., anti-bioterrorism agents). In these instances, animal data can be used in place of human data to model the in-vivo pharmacodynamics. In particular, studies in animals can provide substantial evidence of the effectiveness of biopharma-ceutical products intended for possible use to reduce or prevent the toxicities of these agents under defined circumstances. Such studies should be conducted under GLP (21 CFR 58) and are appHcable when ... 

The most plain, nearly self-evident, act of bioterrorism is demonstrated by one person emptying a tube into a water source so as to contaminate it with a waterborne pathogen. Against such an act stands mainly the level of water chlorination, which does not interfere, practically, with the distinct technical feasibility of this deed. It is, indeed, a simple thing to do. 

Miller J (1993). Evidence Grows on Bioterrorism Weapons. New York Times Magazine, January 3, p. 33. 

Botulinum toxins have been well studied for their use in the military. There is, however, no evidence to confirm its use in the past in any war. This agent can pose a dangerous threat to human population in any biological warfare or from the act of bioterrorism. The toxin can be dispersed in the air as aerosols or it can be mixed to contaminate water or food. Although it is banned, some countries are believed to possess clandestine stockpiles of this agent. 

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