Feared Biological Agents
There are many ways to implement a biological attack, but these are some of the most feared agents:- Anthrax - Anthrax is a bacteria, but it has a spore form that is very durable. If the spores or bacteria get into your lungs, they reproduce and create a toxin that can be fatal. See How Anthrax Works for more information.
- Smallpox - Smallpox is a virus. It was a major killer until it was controlled with vaccinations in the 20th century. It has been eradicated world-wide, but the fear is that terrorists could release new strains.
The main problem with smallpox, unlike with anthrax, is that it is highly contagious. It spreads and kills very quickly. Up to 40 percent of people who catch the virus die from it in about two weeks, and there is no good treatment for the disease. Vaccinations are the main protection, but they must be given prior to infection in order to work. This page has extensive information.
- Botulin toxin - Botulin bacteria produce the botulin toxin, and this toxin is deadly to people in incredibly small quantities (as little as a billionth of a gram). The toxin inhibits the release of the chemicals in nerve cells that cause muscle contractions, so it causes paralysis.
- Ebola virus - The Ebola virus was popularized as a biological warfare agent by two books written by Tom Clancy. The virus takes about a week to kill the victim, and spreads through direct contact.
