Zoonotic microorganisms as agents of agroterrorism in the United States.

Zoonotic diseases, germs spread between animals and people, are common worldwide as scientists estimate more than 6 out of every 10 infectious diseases are spread from animals. The deliberate release of zoonotic agents for agroterrorism can cause illness, death and large-scale economic loss. The purpose of this narrative review is to further comprehend the potential for deliberate misuse of two commonly known zoonotic microorganisms, brucella and bacillus anthracis, and the ways in which the United States has addressed vulnerabilities and established defensive strategy. Although most agents are virtually eradicated in the United States livestock population, majority of surrounding countries do not have eradication or vaccination protocols which poses a threat to the global food trade. Literature regarding microorganisms was collected and analyzed using advanced search engines, and inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality assessments of the literature were conducted in order to extract the most relevant information regarding past, present, and future direction of preparation and preparedness strategies. Continued collaboration amongst veterinarians, physicians, and federal agencies remains crucial in national security efforts and in maintaining public confidence in the security of the food supply.