Bio terrorism is not a new threat, but in recent years it has become a much more likely threat as terrorist acts have increased in frequency and intensity. In years past, terrorists relied on violence and artillery to gain attention, approval, and power. A much easier to use, and deadlier, weapon is germ warfare; the effects of bio terrorism could be vast and devastating.

The History of Bio Terrorism

Although rare, there are a number of cases dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries of armies using rotting bodies--some of them infected with the Bubonic Plague--as primitive biological weapons. The British transmitted smallpox to Native Americans and Canadians through infected blankets and handkerchiefs in the 18th century. During World War I, Germany targeted livestock with anthrax and other biological agents in hopes of sparking epidemics.

Today, creating biological weapons is easier than ever, and attacks are more common, from letters containing anthrax to sarin gas in Tokyo's subways. There are, however, many ways for nations to take a stand against the threat of bio terrorism. These range from the stockpiling of pharmaceuticals to research to allaying unwarranted fears.

One program that addresses this is CTPAT, or the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism; this partnership aims to reduce weaknesses in the supply chain that may allow shipment of biological weapons or components. Another goal of CTPAT is to better protect borders. The US Customs Service recommends that all elements of the supply chain--manufacturers, carriers, importers, and warehouses--work together to ensure security in the shipping industry.