About Bacterial Biothreat Agents

Bacterial Biothreat Agents

A range of bacterial pathogens might be used illegitimately to cause disease in humans or animals. The properties of these pathogens are dissimilar. Much of our information on the properties of these pathogens comes from past programs to develop biological weapons. In principle, disease caused by bacterial biothreat agents could be prevented or treated using antibiotics. However, there are limitations associated with the use of antibiotics in this way. Against this background vaccines will play a key role in protecting vulnerable populations from bacterial biothreats.