Bioterrorism: a primer for 2002.

The often anticipated, sometimes dismissed, threat of biological terrorism became a reality in the United States in the fall of 2001 with cases of cutaneous and inhalation anthrax. As the public health sector is rapidly focusing on enhancing awareness and preparedness, this overview is intended as a primer for clinicians. The more probable events, their most prominent characteristics, and currently available management strategies are summarized. The biowarfare characteristics of plague, tularemia and botulism are summarized. The more problematic anthrax and smallpox are presented in greater detail. Epidemiological clues to a biological attack are outlined with reference to the recent literature.