disaster 5th 1108_5th ed 2011 - Homeland Security and Emergency ...

ABOUT BIOLOGICAL AGENTS
Biological agents are actually tiny life forms or germs that can occur
naturally in plants, animals and soils or can be developed for scientific or
military purposes. Many biological agents affect humans by being inhaled,
absorbed into the skin through a cut, or by swallowing contaminated food
or water. But there are things that make it difficult for some biological
agents to live like sunlight (ultraviolet light) or dry conditions. Wind could
carry agents long distances but also spreads it out making it less effective.
Many animals and insects carry diseases that affect humans but most don’t
make us sick when eaten or inhaled because our immune systems are strong
enough to fight them. But, if a person’s immune system is weak (like in
babies or the elderly), it’s possible that person could become sick or die.
What biological agents could be used in an attack
There are 3 basic groups of biological agents that could be weaponized and
used in an attack (but realize there are some that occur naturally too):
• Bacteria - tiny life forms that reproduce by simple division
and are easy to grow -- diseases they spread are killed
by strong or boosted immune system or antibiotics
• Viruses - organisms that need living cells to reproduce
and are dependent on the body they infect -- most diseases
caused by viruses don’t respond to antibiotics but sometimes
antiviral drugs work (and a boosted immune system
may fight invading organisms - depends on type of virus)
• Toxins - poisonous substances found in and extracted
from living plants, animals or microorganisms; some
toxins can be produced or altered -- some toxins can be
treated with specific antitoxins and selected drugs
Remember, biological weapons - or germ warfare - have been around for
centuries so it’s not anything new ... it’s unfortunate we have to discuss it
at length, but try not to let this topic frighten you. Educate yourself about
the types and where to find more information so you are prepared to react.
How could biological agents be used in an attack
As mentioned earlier, most biological agents break down when exposed to
sunlight or other conditions, and they are very hard to grow and maintain.
There are 3 ways biological agents could be spread:
• Aerosols - dispersed or spread into air by a number of
methods forming a fine mist that could drift for miles
• Animals and insects - some diseases can be carried and
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