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Kwak ML, Wallman JF, Yeo D, Archer MS, Nakao R. Forensic parasitology: a new frontier in criminalistics. Forensic Sci Res 2024; 9:owae005. [PMID: 38846987 PMCID: PMC11156235 DOI: 10.1093/fsr/owae005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Parasites are ubiquitous, diverse, and have close interactions with humans and other animals. Despite this, they have not garnered significant interest from forensic scientists, and their utility as indicators in criminal investigations has been largely overlooked. To foster the development of forensic parasitology we explore the utility of parasites as forensic indicators in five broad areas: (i) wildlife trafficking and exploitation, (ii) biological attacks, (iii) sex crimes, (iv) criminal neglect of humans and other animals, and (v) indicators of movement and travel. To encourage the development and growth of forensic parasitology as a field, we lay out a four-step roadmap to increase the use and utility of parasites in criminal investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mackenzie L Kwak
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - James F Wallman
- Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Earth, Atmospheric and Life Sciences, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Darren Yeo
- The Centre for Wildlife Forensics, National Parks Board (NParks), Singapore, Republic of Singapore
| | - Melanie S Archer
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Monash University/Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine, Southbank, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ryo Nakao
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Department of Disease Control, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Prasad AN, Fenton KA, Agans KN, Borisevich V, Woolsey C, Comer JE, Dobias NS, Peel JE, Deer DJ, Geisbert JB, Lawrence WS, Cross RW, Geisbert TW. Pathogenesis of Aerosolized Ebola Virus Variant Makona in Nonhuman Primates. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:S604-S616. [PMID: 37145930 PMCID: PMC10651212 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Highly pathogenic filoviruses such as Ebola virus (EBOV) hold capacity for delivery by artificial aerosols, and thus potential for intentional misuse. Previous studies have shown that high doses of EBOV delivered by small-particle aerosol cause uniform lethality in nonhuman primates (NHPs), whereas only a few small studies have assessed lower doses in NHPs. METHODS To further characterize the pathogenesis of EBOV infection via small-particle aerosol, we challenged cohorts of cynomolgus monkeys with low doses of EBOV variant Makona, which may help define risks associated with small particle aerosol exposures. RESULTS Despite using challenge doses orders of magnitude lower than previous studies, infection via this route was uniformly lethal across all cohorts. Time to death was delayed in a dose-dependent manner between aerosol-challenged cohorts, as well as in comparison to animals challenged via the intramuscular route. Here, we describe the observed clinical and pathological details including serum biomarkers, viral burden, and histopathological changes leading to death. CONCLUSIONS Our observations in this model highlight the striking susceptibility of NHPs, and likely humans, via small-particle aerosol exposure to EBOV and emphasize the need for further development of diagnostics and postexposure prophylactics in the event of intentional release via deployment of an aerosol-producing device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abhishek N Prasad
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Karla A Fenton
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Krystle N Agans
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Viktoriya Borisevich
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Courtney Woolsey
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jason E Comer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Natalie S Dobias
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jennifer E Peel
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Daniel J Deer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Joan B Geisbert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - William S Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Robert W Cross
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Thomas W Geisbert
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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Lee YCJ, Cowan A, Tankard A. Peptide Toxins as Biothreats and the Potential for AI Systems to Enhance Biosecurity. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:860390. [PMID: 35356782 PMCID: PMC8959115 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.860390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Biological weapons have been used for thousands of years, but recent advances in synthesis technologies have made peptide and protein toxin production more accessible and pose a threat to biosecurity worldwide. Natural toxins such as conotoxins, certain hemolytic compounds, and enterotoxins are peptide agents that can be synthesized in an environment with weak biosecurity measures and rudimentarily weaponized for limited use against smaller targets for lethal or nonlethal effects. Technological advances are changing the threat landscape around biological weapons and potentially facilitating a shift from state sponsored to more micro-level threats stemming from terror cells, insider threats, and lone wolf attacks. Here, we present the reader with an overview of the threat of peptide and protein toxins, provide examples of potent peptide toxins, and introduce capabilities of a proposed biosecurity program utilizing artificial intelligence that unifies commercial nucleotide and peptide synthesis vendors.
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Oliveira M, Mason-Buck G, Ballard D, Branicki W, Amorim A. Biowarfare, bioterrorism and biocrime: A historical overview on microbial harmful applications. Forensic Sci Int 2020; 314:110366. [PMID: 32683271 PMCID: PMC7305902 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2020.110366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Microbial Forensics is a field that continues to grow in interest and application among the forensic community. This review, divided into two sections, covers several topics associated with this new field. The first section presents a historic overview concerning the use of microorganisms (or its product, i.e. toxins) as harmful biological agents in the context of biological warfare (biowarfare), bioterrorism, and biocrime. Each case is illustrated with the examination of case reports that span from prehistory to the present day. The second part of the manuscript is devoted to the role of MF and highlights the necessity to prepare for the pressing threat of the harmful use of biological agents as weapons. Preventative actions, developments within the field to ensure a timely and effective response and are discussed herein.
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MESH Headings
- Bacterial Infections
- Biological Warfare/history
- Bioterrorism/history
- Crime/history
- Forensic Sciences
- HIV Infections
- High-Throughput Screening Assays
- History, 15th Century
- History, 16th Century
- History, 17th Century
- History, 18th Century
- History, 19th Century
- History, 20th Century
- History, 21st Century
- History, Ancient
- History, Medieval
- Humans
- Machine Learning
- Microbiological Techniques
- Toxins, Biological/adverse effects
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Oliveira
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
| | | | - David Ballard
- King's Forensics, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Wojciech Branicki
- Malopolska Centre of Biotechnology of the Jagiellonian University, Kraków, Poland
| | - António Amorim
- i3S - Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Ipatimup - Instituto de Patologia e Imunologia Molecular da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Departamento de Biologia, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Global Health Security and Weapons of Mass Destruction Chapter. ADVANCED SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGIES FOR SECURITY APPLICATIONS 2020. [PMCID: PMC7122872 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-23491-1_9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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6
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Global Catastrophic Threats from the Fungal Kingdom : Fungal Catastrophic Threats. Curr Top Microbiol Immunol 2019; 424:21-32. [PMID: 31119433 DOI: 10.1007/82_2019_161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
The fungal kingdom poses major catastrophic threats to humanity but these are often unappreciated and minimized, in biological threat assessments. The causes for this blind spot are complex and include the remarkable natural resistance of humans to pathogenic fungi, the lack of contagiousness of human fungal diseases, and the indirectness of fungal threats, which are more likely to mediate their destructive effects on crops and ecosystems. A review of historical events reveals that the fungal kingdom includes major threats to humanity through their effects on human health, agriculture, and destruction of materiel. A major concern going forward is the likelihood that physiological adaptations by fungal species to global warming will bring new fungal threats. Fungal threats pose significant challenges specific to this group of organisms including the potential for intercontinental spread by air currents, capacity for rapid evolution, a paucity of effective drugs, the absence of vaccines, and increasing drug resistance. Preparedness against bio-catastrophic risks must include consideration of the threats posed by fungi, which in turn requires a greater investment in mycology-related research.
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7
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Deliberately Contaminated Food. Food Saf (Tokyo) 2014. [DOI: 10.1128/9781555816186.ch13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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8
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Bourgeois SL, Doherty MJ. Bioterrorism and biologic warfare. Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am 2009; 17:299-330, vii. [PMID: 18088788 DOI: 10.1016/j.coms.2005.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Biologic agents have been used throughout history to influence battles. Recently, biologic agents have been used as terrorist weapons. A review of the history of biologic weapons and a medical overview of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Category A and B agents is provided, including history, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, microbiology/virology, diagnosis, treatment, and each agent's use or potential use as a weapon. Background information on public health issues surrounding bioterrorism and the role of oral and maxillofacial surgeons in a bioterrorist event also is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sidney L Bourgeois
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, National Capital Consortium, National Naval Medical Center, 8901 Wisconsin Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA.
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9
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NOJI ERICK. Medical Preparedness and Response to Terrorism with Biological and Chemical Agents -- Present Status in USA. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/15031430310000874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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10
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Abstract
Terrorist attacks by definition are designed to cause fear and panic. There is no question that a terrorist attack using biological agents would present a grave threat to stability of the society in which they were released. Early recognition of such a bioterrorist attack is crucial to containing the damage they could cause. As many of the most likely bioterrorism agents present with pulmonary disease, respiratory physicians may be crucial in the initial recognition and diagnosis phase, and certainly would be drawn into treatment of affected individuals. This review focuses on the biological agents thought most likely to be used by terrorists that have predominantly respiratory presentations. The primary focus of this review is on anthrax, plague, tularaemia, ricin, and Staphylococcal enterotoxin B. The pathogenesis, clinical manifestations and treatment of these agents will be discussed as well as historical examples of their use. Other potential bioterrorism agents with respiratory manifestations will also be discussed briefly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grant W Waterer
- Centre for Asthma, Allergy and Respiratory Research and Lung Institute of Western Australia, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia.
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11
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Characterization of Clostridium species utilizing liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry of intact proteins. J Microbiol Methods 2009; 77:152-8. [PMID: 19318054 DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2009.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Revised: 01/09/2009] [Accepted: 01/19/2009] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A method for biomarker candidate discovery and strain level pathogen characterization using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) with electrospray ionization is described. This method was applied to two pathogenic Clostridium species: C. difficile and C. perfringens. Seven marker proteins per species (fourteen total) were successfully implemented to speciate unknowns during a blind study and could enhance serological and genetic approaches by serving as new targets for detection. Two sets of C. perfringens isolates that were 100% similar by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) were distinguished using LC/MS, demonstrating the high specificity of this approach. The use of LC/MS is less labor intensive than PFGE, affords greater specificity than real-time PCR, and requires no primers or antibodies.
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12
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Dauphin LA, Moser BD, Bowen MD. Evaluation of five commercial nucleic acid extraction kits for their ability to inactivate Bacillus anthracis spores and comparison of DNA yields from spores and spiked environmental samples. J Microbiol Methods 2009; 76:30-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mimet.2008.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2008] [Revised: 09/05/2008] [Accepted: 09/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Weiss MM, Weiss PD, Weiss JB. Anthrax vaccine and public health policy. Am J Public Health 2007; 97:1945-51. [PMID: 17901434 PMCID: PMC2040369 DOI: 10.2105/ajph.2006.102749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/18/2007] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified Bacillus anthracis, the causative organism of anthrax, as a category A potential bioterrorism agent. There are critical shortcomings in the US anthrax vaccine program. Rather than depending on the private sector, the government must assume direct production of anthrax vaccine. The development of a capacity capable of preemptive immunization of the public against anthrax should be considered.
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Fan X, Zhang X, Zhou L, Keith KA, Kern ER, Torrence PF. 5-(Dimethoxymethyl)-2'-deoxyuridine: a novel gem diether nucleoside with anti-orthopoxvirus activity. J Med Chem 2006; 49:3377-82. [PMID: 16722657 PMCID: PMC4262926 DOI: 10.1021/jm0601710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To provide potential new leads for the treatment of orthopoxvirus infections, the 5-position of the pyrimidine nucleosides have been modified with a gem diether moiety to yield the following new nucleosides: 5-(dimethoxymethyl)-2'-deoxyuridine (2b), 5-(diethoxymethyl)-2'-deoxyuridine (3b), 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine ethylene acetal (4b), and 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine propylene acetal (5b). These were evaluated in human foreskin fibroblast cells challenged with the vaccinia virus or cowpox virus. Of the four gem diether nucleosides, only the dimethyl gem diether congener showed significant antiviral activity against both viruses. This antiviral activity did not appear to be related to the decomposition to the 5-formyl-2'-deoxyuridine, which was itself devoid of anti-orthopoxvirus activity in these assays. Moreover, at the pH of the in vitro assays, 2b was very stable with a decomposition (to aldehyde) half-life of >15 d. The anti-orthopoxvirus activity of pyrimidine may be favored by the introduction of hydrophilic moieties to the 5-position side chain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Paul F. Torrence
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. Tel: (928) 523-0298. Fax: (928) 523-8111.
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Abstract
The increased threat of terrorism has revealed the importance of various diseases as potential weapons of destruction. Among the diseases that have been identified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as being caused by category A organisms is plague. An ancient disease, it has played a role in both natural disasters and war and has been used as a weapon since at least medieval times. This article provides a brief historical overview of the disease in its natural occurrence and in its use as a biological weapon, as well as its potential for future use.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Lee Ligon
- Department of Pediactrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Khardori N. Bioterrorism and bioterrorism preparedness: historical perspective and overview. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2006; 20:179-211, vii. [PMID: 16762735 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2006.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nancy Khardori
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, 701 North First Street, Springfield, IL 62702, USA.
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Greenberg MI, Marty AM. Emerging natural threats and the deliberate use of biological agents. Clin Lab Med 2006; 26:287-98, vii. [PMID: 16815453 PMCID: PMC7131738 DOI: 10.1016/j.cll.2006.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Over the past several years there has been an increasing awareness and interest by the medical community, the media, and government at all levels regarding the need to plan for and defend against biological weapons. This article offers an overview of various new and emerging natural biological threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael I Greenberg
- Department of Emergency Medicine, DUCOM, 245 North Broad Street, MailStop 1011, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA.
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Eliasson H, Broman T, Forsman M, Bäck E. Tularemia: Current Epidemiology and Disease Management. Infect Dis Clin North Am 2006; 20:289-311, ix. [PMID: 16762740 DOI: 10.1016/j.idc.2006.03.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Eliasson
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Orebro University Hospital, Infektionskliniken, Universitetssjukhuset, SE-70185 Orebro, Sweden.
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Abstract
This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical management of patients with suspected or confirmed viral hemorrhagic fever infection. The focus is on clinical management based on case series from naturally occuring outbreaks of viral hemorrhagic fever infection as well as imported cases of viral hemorrhagic fever encountered in industrialized nations. The potential risk of bioterrorism involving these agents is discussed as well as emergency department and critical care management of isolated cases or larger outbreaks. Important aspects of management, including recognition of infected patients, isolation and decontamination procedures, as well as available vaccines and therapies are emphasized.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Pigott
- Department of Emergency Medicine, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, 619 South 19th Street, Birmingham, AL 35249-7013, USA.
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Ecker DJ, Sampath R, Willett P, Wyatt JR, Samant V, Massire C, Hall TA, Hari K, McNeil JA, Büchen-Osmond C, Budowle B. The Microbial Rosetta Stone Database: a compilation of global and emerging infectious microorganisms and bioterrorist threat agents. BMC Microbiol 2005; 5:19. [PMID: 15850481 PMCID: PMC1127111 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2180-5-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2004] [Accepted: 04/25/2005] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thousands of different microorganisms affect the health, safety, and economic stability of populations. Many different medical and governmental organizations have created lists of the pathogenic microorganisms relevant to their missions; however, the nomenclature for biological agents on these lists and pathogens described in the literature is inexact. This ambiguity can be a significant block to effective communication among the diverse communities that must deal with epidemics or bioterrorist attacks. RESULTS We have developed a database known as the Microbial Rosetta Stone. The database relates microorganism names, taxonomic classifications, diseases, specific detection and treatment protocols, and relevant literature. The database structure facilitates linkage to public genomic databases. This paper focuses on the information in the database for pathogens that impact global public health, emerging infectious organisms, and bioterrorist threat agents. CONCLUSION The Microbial Rosetta Stone is available at http://www.microbialrosettastone.com/. The database provides public access to up-to-date taxonomic classifications of organisms that cause human diseases, improves the consistency of nomenclature in disease reporting, and provides useful links between different public genomic and public health databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Ecker
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Rangarajan Sampath
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Paul Willett
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | | | - Vivek Samant
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Christian Massire
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Thomas A Hall
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Kumar Hari
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - John A McNeil
- Ibis Therapeutics, a division of Isis Pharmaceuticals, 1891 Rutherford Rd., Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA
| | - Cornelia Büchen-Osmond
- International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses, Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, 722 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Bruce Budowle
- Laboratory Division, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington, DC 20535, USA
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Sterling DA, Clements B, Rebmann T, Shadel BN, Stewart LM, Thomas R, Evans RG. Occupational physician perceptions of bioterrorism. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2005; 208:127-34. [PMID: 15881986 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2005.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The rationale for most preparedness training of healthcare professionals is based on the assumption that most persons infected following a biological incident will present first to emergency departments of acute care facilities or to ambulatory settings such as private physician offices, and such incidences would be recognized, appropriately treated, and reported to the local health departments. However, an alternative first point of contact is industry, a location where workers gather and disperse on a regular and documented basis, and require healthcare. In industry there are health professionals responsible for the health, safety and on-site well-being of the workforce and surrounding community; these professionals are in a position for early recognition, surveillance, and isolation. Targeted education must be provided to these health professionals. To address perceptions of risk and preferred educational delivery methods for bioterrorism and emerging infections-related materials, a survey of occupational physicians was performed during the spring of 2001. Within the 2 months following the September 11 terrorist attack and subsequent anthrax bioterrorism event, and before release of any results from the first survey, a follow-up mail survey was initiated in November 2001. Response rate to the pre- and post-September 11 survey were 58% (n = 56) and 33% (n = 33), respectively. No significant demographic differences were observed between the respondents of the pre- and post-surveys. Perceptions of likelihood of another bioterrorism event increased between surveys, as would be expected; however, a tendency to believe that it would not happen locally persisted. Even though over 90% of the physicians had received immediate training following September 11, additional training/education needs were demonstrated. Although training and education modules can be designed without information based on the population that can be on the receiving end, it rarely accomplishes its goal. Results from this survey can serve as a base for designing various levels of targeted training and educational material specific to the perceived need, method of obtaining information and the format considered to be most conducive for learning. Potential consequences from lack of bioterrorism preparedness due to low perception of need and threat awareness need to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Sterling
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health, Institute for Bio-Security, School of Public Health, Saint Louis University, St Louis, MO 63104, USA.
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Khardori N, Kanchanapoom T. Overview of biological terrorism: Potential agents and preparedness. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinmicnews.2005.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Lee VJ. Biowarfare Pathogens. Is the Research Flavor Different Than That of Clinically Relevant Pathogens? ANNUAL REPORTS IN MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY 2004; 39:211-221. [PMID: 32287465 PMCID: PMC7127116 DOI: 10.1016/s0065-7743(04)39017-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This chapter introduces four chemical warfare agents: bacillus anthracis (anthrax), yersinia pestis (plague), variola major (smallpox), and francesella tularensis (tularemia). Anthrax is a dimorphic bacterium that normally exists as spores. The clinical presentation can be as cutaneous, inhalational or gastrointestinal forms that are fortuitously not transmissible from person to person. The insidious nature of anthrax has both vegetative and spore morphology. The vegetative state, being the growth phase, is typically responsive to most classes of antibiotics, while the spore phase is not. Plague is caused by a bacterium carried by a rodent flea. While current antibiotics are effective against plague, the worry is the possibility of a bioengineered chimeric construct that would be resistant to all classes of antibiotics. Tularemia is a zoonosis that occurs naturally in the United States, with animal transmission to man. Sometimes an insect vector may also be the primary route of infection. It is highly pathogenic and the inhalation of 10 organisms would be adequate for infection. Smallpox is the most feared of all biowarfare pathogens, primarily due to its high transmissibility versus other pathogens whose etiologic affects are episodic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ving J Lee
- Anacor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Palo Alto, CA 94303, USA
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Abstract
The term viral hemorrhagic fever refers to a clinical syndrome characterized by acute onset of fever accompanied by nonspecific findings of malaise, prostration, diarrhea,and headache. Patients frequently show signs of increased vascular permeability, and many develop bleeding diatheses. The hemorrhagic fever viruses represent potential agents for biologic warfare because of capability of aerosol transmission, high morbidity,and mortality associated with infection, and ability to replicate in cell culture in high concentrations. Herein we discuss the Filoviridae, the agents of Ebola and Marburg hemorrhagic fevers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle R Salvaggio
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1900 University Boulevard, 229 Tinsley Harrison Tower, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
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Abstract
Biologic weapons have been used since ancient times in war, and, more recently, by terrorists. From the catapulting of plague corpses over city walls in the Middle Ages to the bacterial contamination of salad bars in Oregon in 1984 by the Rajneeshee cult, the long history of biologic weapons use underscores their current threat. In preparing for the threat of biologic weapons, health care professionals should not only be familiar with the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of the diseases they produce, but also with the historic context of their past uses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Jacobs
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, 1530 3rd Avenue South, EFH 414, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA.
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Mondy C, Cardenas D, Avila M. The role of an advanced practice public health nurse in bioterrorism preparedness. Public Health Nurs 2004; 20:422-31. [PMID: 14629673 DOI: 10.1046/j.1525-1446.2003.20602.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The 2001 anthrax events have vividly illustrated that terrorism involving the release of a biological agent is a major public health emergency requiring an immediate and well-coordinated response. If healthcare professionals and emergency responders are to be prepared to manage such attacks, unprecedented cooperative efforts at the national, state, and local levels are necessary. To aid such efforts, advanced practice public health nurses (PHNs) must exercise their ability to collaborate with a variety of disciplines and communities. Using the Los Angeles County Public Health Nursing Practice Model, advanced practice PHNs can be trained to deal effectively with acts of bioterrorism. This model defines the practice of public health nursing as working on a population-based level to create conditions under which healthy people can live within healthy communities. This article will discuss the threat of bioterrorism and describe how the Public Health Nursing Practice Model can be applied to assist advanced practice PHNs in the development of a public health plan for preparedness and response to bioterrorism. Six specific interventions that enable advanced practice PHNs to affect populations at the community and systems level will be discussed along with the implications of bioterrorism for advanced practice public health nursing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristin Mondy
- Los Angeles County Department of Health Services, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Abstract
Dentistry's role in responding to bioterrorism and other catastrophic events is evolving and may involve a wide range of activities. Organized dentistry. local dental societies. and interested individuals should make local emergency response planners aware of the services the dental profession can provide and should work to integrate dental resources to strengthen the disaster response capacity of community health care systems. With effective planning, education, and training, dentists can play a significant role in responding to acts of bioterrorism or other unforeseen events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvador Flores
- Development Center for Operational Medicine, Dental Expeditionary Operations, Air Force Institute for Operational Health, 311th HSW, 8150 Aeromedical Boulevard, Building 721, Brooks City-Base, San Antonio, TX 78235, USA.
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Han SZ, Alfano MC, Psoter WJ, Rekow ED. Bioterrorism and catastrophe response: a quick-reference guide to resources. J Am Dent Assoc 2003; 134:745-52. [PMID: 12839411 DOI: 10.14219/jada.archive.2003.0261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dentists' responses to catastrophe have been redefined by bioterrorism. Informed response requires accurate information about agents and diseases that have the potential to be used as weapons. METHODS The authors reviewed information about the most probable bioterrorist weapons (those from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention's Category A) from the World Wide Web and print journals and distilled it into a resource list that is current, relevant to dentistry and noncommercial. The Web sites cited include those sponsored by federal agencies, academic institutions and professional organizations. The articles cited include those published in English within the last six years in refereed journals that are available in most higher education institutions. RESULTS The authors present the information in a table that provides a quick-reference guide to resources describing agents and diseases with the greatest potential for use as weapons: anthrax, botulism, plague, smallpox, tularemia and viral hemorrhagic fevers. This article presents Web site and journal citations for background and patient-oriented information (fact sheets), signs and symptoms, and prophylactic measures and treatment for each of the agents and diseases. The table facilitates quick access to this information, especially in an emergency. This article also points out guidelines for response should a suspected attack occur. CONCLUSIONS Armed with information about biological weapons, dentists can provide faster diagnosis, inform their patients about risks, prophylaxis or treatment and rethink their own role in terrorism response. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Fast, accurate diagnosis limits the spread of exceptionally contagious diseases. Providing accurate information to patients minimizes misinformation and the associated public fear and panic that, unchecked, could overwhelm health care systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Z Han
- Harvard School of Dental Medicine, Boston, USA
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Abstract
A bioterrorist attack of any kind has the potential to overwhelm a community and, indeed, in the case of smallpox, an entire nation. During such an attack the number of patients requiring hospitalization and specifically critical care is likely to be enormous. Intensivists will be at the forefront of this war and will play an important role in dealing with mass casualties in an attempt to heal the community. A high degree of suspicion and prompt recognition of an event will be required to contain it. Specific knowledge of the possible agents that can be used will be key in managing patients and in estimating the needs of a health care facility and community to deal with the future course of events. Intensivists play various roles aside from the delivery of critical care to the patient in the ICU. These roles include making triage decisions regarding the appropriate use of critical care beds (which automatically dictates how other non-ICU beds are used and managed) and serving as a team member of ethics committees (on such issues as dying, futility, and withdrawal of care). Indeed, intensivists are no strangers to disaster management and have served on the forefront of many. A biologic weapons attack, however, is likely to push this multidimensional nature of the intensivist to the maximum, because such an attack is likely to result in a more homogeneous critically ill population where the number of critical care staff and supplies to treat the victims may be limited. One hopes that such an event will not occur. Sadly, however the events of September 11, 2001, have only heightened the awareness of such a possibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Karwa
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, 111 East 210th Street, Bronx, NY 10467, USA.
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Wasserman GM, Grabenstein JD, Pittman PR, Rubertone MV, Gibbs PP, Wang LZ, Golder LG. Analysis of adverse events after anthrax immunization in US Army medical personnel. J Occup Environ Med 2003; 45:222-33. [PMID: 12661179 DOI: 10.1097/01.jom.0000058345.05741.6b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A broad range of health effects in a cohort of 601 health care personnel, immunized with anthrax vaccine adsorbed (AVA) as a military occupational health requirement, were assessed to evaluate adverse events both qualitatively and quantitatively. Active surveillance showed that localized reactions were common and occurred more often in women than men. Five patients were reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, but only one event could be definitively attributed to immunization, a large localized reaction. Two separate cohort studies, one using nested data from a standardized health risk appraisal instrument and the other comparing rates of outpatient visits and hospitalizations, did not reveal significant differences between AVA-immunized and unimmunized individuals. Our findings suggest that AVA is relatively reactogenic but do not indicate serious adverse health effects due to immunization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glenn M Wasserman
- Preventive Medicine Department, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii, USA.
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Cariappa MP, Vaz LS, Sehgal P. Bioterrorism: An Emerging Public Health Problem. Med J Armed Forces India 2002; 58:325-30. [PMID: 27407424 PMCID: PMC4925124 DOI: 10.1016/s0377-1237(02)80089-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M P Cariappa
- Officer Commanding. Station Health Organisation, Ramgarh Cantt
| | - L S Vaz
- Reader, Department of Preventive & Social Medicine, Armed Forces Medical College, Pune - 411 040
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Noah DL, Noah DL, Crowder HR. Biological terrorism against animals and humans: a brief review and primer for action. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002; 221:40-3. [PMID: 12420822 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2002.221.40] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Donald L Noah
- Office of the Air Force Surgeon General Headquarters, United States Air Force, Bolling Air Force Base, Washington, DC 20330, USA
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Abstract
Only a few years ago bioterrorism was considered a remote concern but few today are complacent about the possibility of biological agents being intentionally used to cause widespread panic, disruption, disease and death. By its very nature, the biological weapons threat - with its close links to naturally occurring infectious agents and disease - requires a different paradigm than that for conventional terrorism, military strikes or attacks caused by other weapons of mass destruction. This evolving threat presents the medical, public health and scientific communities (importantly including biotechnology) with a set of difficult and pressing challenges. This article provides a brief overview of the threat from biological weapons, the nature of a bioterrorist attack and some of the issues that need to be addressed if we are to make meaningful progress to prevent or contain this disturbing and potentially catastrophic danger.
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Rotz LD, Khan AS, Lillibridge SR, Ostroff SM, Hughes JM. Public health assessment of potential biological terrorism agents. Emerg Infect Dis 2002; 8:225-30. [PMID: 11897082 PMCID: PMC2732458 DOI: 10.3201/eid0802.010164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 546] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
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Abstract
This article presents a brief history of the use of biological agents in warfare and bioterrorism. Bacillus anthracis, smallpox virus, and Yersinia pestis, historically have been and currently are considered the most likely candidates for potential use under these circumstances. This article discusses the clinical syndromes these agents cause and the role of vaccines in protection against them.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Polgreen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa 52242, USA
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Kemp C. Bioterrorism: introduction and major agents. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF NURSE PRACTITIONERS 2001; 13:483-91. [PMID: 11930512 DOI: 10.1111/j.1745-7599.2001.tb00012.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
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Marty CAM, Conran CRM, Kortepeter LMG. Recent Challenges in Infectious Diseases: Biological Pathogens as Weapons and Emerging Endemic Threats. Clin Lab Med 2001. [DOI: 10.1016/s0272-2712(18)30016-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Abstract
The specter of bioterrorism has captured the attention of government and military officials, scientists, and the general public. Compared to other sectors of the population, clinical microbiologists are more directly impacted by concerns about bioterrorism. This review focuses on the role envisioned for clinical laboratories in response to a bioterrorist event. The microbiology and clinical aspects of the biological agents thought to be the most likely tools of bioterrorists are presented. The historical background of the problem of bioterrorism and an overview of current U.S. preparedness planning, with an emphasis on the roles of health care professionals, are also included.
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Affiliation(s)
- W F Klietmann
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Khan
- Bioterrorism Preparedness and Response Program, National Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, USA
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