Bioterrorism – Menace for the Public and Health Services

Overview

In recent years the fear of bioterrorism, of secret modernization and dissemination of biologicalweapons is increasing. Facts detected recently in Iran, Japan and the former Soviet Union provideevidence that there are countries and dissident groups which have access to modern technology ofcultivation of dangerous pathogens as well as motivation for their use in acts of terrorism or war.The menace of biological terrorism is nowadays, as compared with the past, much greater. The mostfeared candidates as regards production of biological weapons are the pathogens of smallpox,anthrax and plague. The author discusses the serious character of possible events associated withterrorist dissemination of these pathogens. It is much esier to produce and use biological weaponsthan to create effective systems of defence against them. The menace of bioterrorism and bioweapons must not be exaggerated nor understimated. The possible terrorist use of bioweapons is real.At present even the most advanced industrial countries cannot quarantee effective protection oftheir populations. Fortunately they are however aware of their present vulnerability. Our societyis not equipped to cope with bioterrorism. Preparation and reinforcement of the health services, inparticular of sections specialized in the control of infectious diseases is an effective step to divertthe sequelae and suffering associated with terrorist use of biological agents. It is essential to beprepared. This calls for time and funds which unfortunately are not plentiful.

Key words:
bioterrorism – health services.