Biological Weapons a Global Threat: A Sustainable Approach for Early Identification
Publication Date: 19/04/2019
Author(s): Dennis D. Yakubu , Daniel A. Paul.
Volume/Issue: Volume 2 , Issue 2 (2019)
Abstract:
This study looks at the current threat posed by the biological agents and their sustainable early identification and awareness strategies. These biological agents are inexpensive to make, relatively easy to transport and can resist detection by standard security systems. There are 70 different types of microorganisms that can be used as biological weapons, but only 20-30% of the diseases they cause can be treated, which is the current global trend/ manipulation of warfare by terrorist. The Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) categorized these agents as A, B, or C, depending on the risk these agents pose to the national security, some of the diseases caused by these agents include; Anthrax, Smallpox, Plaque, Tularemia, Viral haemorrhagic fever. Despite the treaty acceded to, by 165 countries as of 2011, most states alleged to have or being interested in these weapons for war today. Although biological weapons have been a feature of international relations since the early twentieth century, the past decades have seen fears about them increasing with each passing year. As result of this, there should be a deliberate action by the world powers to put in place sustainable approach of checks and rapid respond to such eventuality by employing the services of forensics and other experts in the field.
