Francisella tularensis: possible agent in bioterrorism.
Francisella tularensis, the causative agent of tularemia, is a highly infectious gram-negative coccobacillus. Due to its high infectivity it is of major concern to public health officials as a possible biological weapon. Although accidental exposure can occur through arthropod bites, handling infected animals, or breathing in aerosols, cases are usually isolated and contained. In the event of an intentional exposure such as in a bioterrorist attack, inhalation of aerosols can result in devastating consequences with much causality. Although a vaccine is available, sufficient quantities may not be readily accessible in an actual attack. Therefore, it is very important for both medical professionals and public health officials to be prepared to contain and control the situation should it actually occur.
Gallagher-Smith
Melissa
M
University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey School of Health Related Professions, Newark, NJ 07107, USA.
Kim
Josephine
J
Al-Bawardy
Rasha
R
Josko
Deborah
D
D000336:Aerosols; D001428:Bacterial Vaccines; D023482:Bioterrorism; D003264:Containment of Biohazards; D005603:Francisella / Q000472:pathogenicity*; D016905:Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D006801:Humans; D019570:Inhalation Exposure; D011634:Public Health; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012449:Safety
D000336:Aerosols; D001428:Bacterial Vaccines