Bacterial Warfare: The Use of Biologic Agents in Warfare

Bacterial Warfare: The Use of Biologic Agents in Warfare

Evaluates possibility of BW in response to public interest/concern. Reviews practical limitations to development and use of biological weapons. Covers Intestinal Disease, Respiratory Disease, Insect-Transmitted Disease, Infective (Non-Communicable) Disease, Toxins, Animal Diseases.

1933

Most candidate diseases are well controlled by modern sanitation or public health, and thus not useful for military purpose. Respiratory disease would show promise, but its lack of control/targeting is reason enough to disincentivize its use. Infective diseases (especially anthrax) are the most likely to be successful, since they are non-communicable. However, delivery mechanisms are a huge hurdle. Overall, the technical and logistical challenges make BW currently impractical.