Why has NIAID identified certain biological agents as its top research priorities?
I have already indicated that the NIAID biodefense program emphasizes research on Category A agents: anthrax, smallpox, plague, botulism, tularemia, Ebola and other hemorrhagic fever viruses. Why are these viruses, bacteria, and toxins considered the most dangerous potential agents of bioterrorism? Many other microbes, such as those that cause measles, mumps, or even AIDS, cause serious illness but are not on the Category A list. Simply put, the high-priority Category A agents include organisms that pose a risk to national security because they: • Can be easily disseminated or transmitted from person to person • Result in high mortality rates and have the potential for major public health impact • Might cause public panic and social disruption • Require special action for public health preparedness Category B agents are considered to have the second highest priority in terms of their bioterrorist threat potential. These agents are moderately easy to disseminate, result in moderate morb
Related Questions
- What research priorities will support data-driven, evidence-based approaches to health care in the juvenile justice system?
- Are terrorists trying to create genetically engineered biological agents to target certain ethnic groups?
- What type of research is currently being undertaken in the Department of Biological Sciences?
