Terrorists could sow unprecedented devastation by unleashing biological agents. Here are some of the most dangerous:
SMALLPOX
A highly contagious virus that would kill about one-third of those infected. Can be prevented only with vaccine given before or within four days of exposure. Vaccine stocks in the U.S. are currently inadequate. Virus was mass-produced in the former Soviet Union.
ANTHRAX
This bacterial disease is not contagious, but spores can kill virtually all of those who inhale them unless antibiotics are administered immediately. Known to have been made or obtained by Iraq and others, including the Japanese cult Aum Shinrikyo.
BUBONIC PLAGUE
Although less contagious than the smallpox virus, plague bacteria could be aerosolized and sprayed by terrorists, then victims would spread the disease to others. Nearly 100% fatal without antibiotics.
HEMORRHAGIC FEVERS
Caused by deadly viruses like Ebola with no standard treatment. Spread only by blood or secretions, so less contagious than other agents. But has high potential for inducing terror. Aum Shinrikyo members went to Zaire to collect samples.
GENE-SPLICED WEAPONS
New viruses or bacteria could be engineered in the lab to be far more virulent than today's disease agents. Fortunately, creating such "Franken-germs" is still difficult.
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