BIOTERRORISM

Subject : Science & tech

Context: Formulating Effective laws to counter bioterrorism is one of the lessons learned from the pandemic , a parliamentary panel on health noted.

Concept :

Bioterrorism or Biological Attack:

• It is the intentional release of viruses, bacteria, or other germs that can sicken or kill people, livestock, or crops.

Biological Weapons:

• They use microorganisms and natural toxins to produce disease in humans, animals, or plants.
• These agents can be deployed as biological weapons when paired with a delivery system, such as a missile or aerosol device.
• Bacillus anthracis, the bacteria that causes anthrax, is one of the most likely agents to be used in a biological attack.
• The most destructive bioterrorism scenario is the airborne dispersion of pathogens over a major population region.
• Tropical agricultural pathogens or pests can be used as anticrop agents to hamper food security worldwide.

Combating Bioterrorism

• The European Union (EU), Russia, and China are finding ways to deter bioterrorism and biowarfare. The aim is to make it harder for terrorists to obtain the resources for designing biological weapons.

Intelligence Sharing & Rapid Detection

• Global intelligence agencies should operate together and share credible intelligence.
• Combining human resources, laboratory resources, and information supervision in novel, legal and satisfactory ways that allow for timely detection and categorization of hazards.
• Rapid detection and surveillance are important for an efficient response to a bioterror strike.

Pathogen Analysis

• Speedy, uniform techniques that allow for the discovery of an extensive range of pathogens used as biological weapons in a measurable fashion.
• Pathogens are a usual part of the environment and can complicate detection attempts.

Strengthening the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention

• The Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) of 1972 prohibits signatory nations to develop, produce, stockpile or otherwise, acquire or retain:
• Microbial or other biological agents or toxins whatever their origin or method of production, of types and in quantities that have no justification for prophylactic, protective, or other peaceful purposes.
• Weapons, equipment or means of delivery designed to use such agents or toxins for hostile purposes or in armed conflict.
• However, there is no exact authentication method that can ensure compliance with the BTWC. Therefore, efforts must be made to strengthen the BTWC so that it helps to uncover and successfully prevent biological weapons programs.
• India ratified and pledged to abide by its obligations in 2015.