Bioterrorism agents are divided into three categories based on their ease of spread and the severity of illness they cause. Category A agents are most dangerous, and Category C agents are current emerging threats.
Category A
Can be easily spread or transmitted from person to person
Result in high death rates and have the potential for major public health impact
Cause public panic and social disruption
Require special action for public health preparedness.
Category B
Moderately easy to spread
Result in moderate illness rates and low death rates
Require specialized testing capabilities
Category C
Easily available
Easily produced and spread
Have potential for high morbidity and mortality rates
Bioterrorism related disease threats include:
For more information on preparedness activities focused on specific agents, and to learn how to prepare for a bioterrorism-related emergency, click here
For more information on agents of bioterrorism, please visit the CDCs website.
