Zoonotic pathogens, which are infectious agents transmitted from animal reservoirs to human hosts, represent a significant threat as potential bioterrorism agent. The natural presence of these pathogens in animal populations, their capacity to induce severe illness in humans, and their potential for rapid transmission render them attractive options for malicious individuals seeking to cause harm. Several zoonotic pathogens, including Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis, Ebola virus, and avian influenza viruses, have a history of causing severe outbreaks and could potentially be utilized as bioweapons to generate fear, disrupt communities, and strain healthcare resources. Moreover, the dual-use potential of biotechnology exacerbates the risk, as advancements in genetic engineering could bolster the virulence, transmissibility, or resistance of zoonotic pathogens.

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Zoonotic Pathogens as Agents of Bioterrorism

  • Prasanna Vadhana A,
  • Ripan Biswas

摘要

Zoonotic pathogens, which are infectious agents transmitted from animal reservoirs to human hosts, represent a significant threat as potential bioterrorism agent. The natural presence of these pathogens in animal populations, their capacity to induce severe illness in humans, and their potential for rapid transmission render them attractive options for malicious individuals seeking to cause harm. Several zoonotic pathogens, including Bacillus anthracis, Yersinia pestis, Ebola virus, and avian influenza viruses, have a history of causing severe outbreaks and could potentially be utilized as bioweapons to generate fear, disrupt communities, and strain healthcare resources. Moreover, the dual-use potential of biotechnology exacerbates the risk, as advancements in genetic engineering could bolster the virulence, transmissibility, or resistance of zoonotic pathogens.