Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which bioterrorism agent is classified as a significant threat?

1. Smallpox

2. West Nile Virus

3. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)

4. Novel influenza A H1N1

The correct answer is: Smallpox

Smallpox is classified as a significant threat among bioterrorism agents for several reasons. Firstly, it is highly contagious and can be spread from person to person, making it a potential for widespread outbreaks if released intentionally. Smallpox has a high mortality rate, especially in unvaccinated populations, and the general population has little to no immunity since the disease was eradicated in 1980, and routine vaccinations ceased shortly thereafter. Additionally, the smallpox virus can survive outside the body for extended periods, allowing it to be effectively disseminated in various ways, contributing to its potential use as a bioweapon. The psychological impact of a smallpox outbreak, given its historical severity and the fear it engenders, also plays a role in its classification as a significant threat. On the other hand, while other agents listed may pose health risks, they do not match the immediate threat level or potential for mass casualties associated with smallpox. For instance, West Nile Virus primarily affects birds and is transmitted by mosquitoes, not through human-to-human contact, limiting its use as a bioweapon. Similarly, although SARS and H1N1 are serious infectious diseases, they do not represent the same level of threat in terms of mortality and potential for rapid spread