The Physician's Role in the Defense Against Biological Weapons

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Abstract
The possibility that biological warfare may be used against the United States cannot be ignored. There is no evidence that it has ever been employed as a major weapons system, and its effectiveness has not been proved, but it is feasible. As an area weapon, it would affect civilian as well as military personnel. Recognition of an attack and identification of the agent would be major problems. Artificial immunization constitutes the most effective means of protection. Antibiotics now available are effective against infections with the likely bacterial and rickettsial agents, but viral and mycotic infections would present additional problems. Proper training of civilian and military personnel, advance planning to include stockpiling of adequate amounts of antibiotics, and expansion of present research efforts in the basic processes of infection can provide a reasonably adequate defense.

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