Biological Threats

Biological agents can be released in many ways

Biological Agent

A biological agent is a living micro-organism or biological toxin that can be used to incapacitate or kill. It can be deliberately released into the environment by aerosol spray, food and water contamination, or through infected vectors such as mosquitoes and rats.

Points of entry

Biological Agent Attacks

A biological agent attack is the deliberate release of biological agents to make people sick. Biological agents may be ingested, inhaled or enter through a skin cut to make you sick.

Some agents, such as smallpox, are contagious and can result in diseases that spread from one person to another person. On the other hand, other agents, such as anthrax, are not contagious.

Classes of Biological Agents and their Effects

Bacterial Agents (e.g. Bacillus anthracis)

• Bacteria are small single-celled organisms.

• Under special circumstances, some types of bacteria, for example Bacillus anthracis, which is the causative agent of anthrax, can transform into spores that are resistant to extreme conditions like cold, heat, drying, chemicals and radiation.

• Bacteria that cause diseases in humans can act in 2 ways: by invading human tissue or producing poisons and toxins.

Viral Agents (e.g. SARS, Smallpox)

• Viruses are simple micro-organisms that consist of a protein coat containing genetic material.

• Because viruses lack a system for their own metabolism, they require living hosts (e.g. cells of an infected human) for replication.

• Viruses are resistant to antibiotics.

Biological Toxins (e.g. Ricin)

• Biological toxins are poisons produced by living organisms (e.g. Ricin extracted from castor beans).

Other Types of Biological Agents

• There are biological agents that do not fall under the general classes of bacterial agents, viral agents or biological toxins.

• For example, the agent responsible for Q Fever has properties common to both bacteria and viruses, and cannot be uniquely classified as either a bacterium or virus.

Possible Signs of a Biological Agent Attack

A biological agent attack may not be immediately obvious as there is an incubation period during which the ill effects of the agent are not observable.

Look out for these Signs

• Unusual powdery or gel-like substance and suspicious spraying device.

• Reports by local health care workers about a pattern of unusual illnesses in the community or

• A wave of sick people seeking emergency medical attention.

In the Event of a Biological Agent Attack

To confirm and identify a biological agent attack takes time. As a result, public health officials may not be able to provide information on what immediate action you should take to protect yourself and your family. However, there are some things you can do in the interim like monitor the news and practise good hygiene.

Monitor mass media for information on what to do

Practise good hygiene

• Monitor the mass media closely for further information on the signs and symptoms of the disease and where to seek emergency medical care if you become ill.

• Practise good hygiene and cleanliness to avoid the spreading of germs.

• As many common illnesses have similar symptoms, do not assume that any illness is the result of the declared biological emergency.

• Seek medical advice if you are unsure.

Exposure to a Biological Agent Attack

Victims of a biological agent attack may not suffer any observable symptoms. However, if you suspect you (or someone else) have been exposed to an attack, these are the precautions you should take.

Anthrax

Anthrax is a disease caused by bacteria. The powdery form of anthrax, though not contagious, is a threat to public safety. In Singapore, the SCDF, Police, Ministry of Health and Singapore Post have taken precautionary measures to deal with this threat. The public is advised to stay calm and exercise vigilance so as to detect any signs of a possible threat.

Guidelines for Handling Articles Suspected of Containing Anthrax

The following guidelines pertain to the handling of articles suspected of containing anthrax (e.g. a powdery substance is observed).

Cover article and cordon off area

Wash body areas that were exposed to the powdery substance

• Do not handle the article directly. If the article is already opened, cover the spilled contents immediately with an improvised item such as clothing, plastic cover, paper or a trash can. Do not remove the cover.

• Do not sniff at the spilled contents or attempt to clean up the spilled material.

• Turn off all local fans or ventilation units in the affected area or room.

• Leave the room and close the door or block off the area to prevent others from entering.

• Go to the nearest toilet or washing point and wash your hands and any exposed skin with soap and water.

• Prepare a list of names and contact numbers of all persons who were in the area or room of the suspicious article. Give the list to the Police for follow-up investigations.

• At the earliest opportunity, remove all clothing and shower with soap and water. Do not use bleach or other strong disinfectants on your skin. The clothing should be sealed in a plastic bag or washed thoroughly with bleach.