Simulation modeling of anthrax spore dispersion in a bioterrorism incident.
Recent events have increased awareness of the risk posed by terrorist attacks. Bacillus anthracis has resurfaced in the 21st century as a deadly agent of bioterrorism because of its potential for causing massive civilian casualties. This analysis presents the results of a computer simulation of the dispersion of anthrax spores in a typical 50-story, high-rise building after an intentional release during a bioterrorist incident. The model simulates aerosol dispersion in the case of intensive, small-scale convection, which equalizes the concentration of anthrax spores over the building volume. The model can be used to predict the time interval required for spore dispersion throughout a building after a terrorist attack in a high-rise building. The analysis reveals that an aerosol release of even a relatively small volume of anthrax spores during a terrorist incident has the potential to quickly distribute concentrations that are infectious throughout the building.
Reshetin
Vladimir P
VP
Joint Institute for Power and Nuclear Research, nationa Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Sosny-Minsk, 220109, Belarus.
Regens
James L
JL
D000336:Aerosols; D000391:Air Microbiology; D000881:Anthrax / Q000635:transmission*; D023482:Bioterrorism; D003198:Computer Simulation; D006801:Humans; D012306:Risk; D013171:Spores, Bacterial; D013696:Temperature
D000336:Aerosols