A Look into Anthrax as a Biological Weapon, from the Past to Today

Introduction: Biological attack a phenomenon which has seriouslystarted in the 20th- century and is expanding every day. Plague agent isone of factors listed as a biological weapon by the disarmamentconvention. Therefore, the risk of biological or bioterrorism applicationsis probable and serious. The purpose of this study was to update healthprofessionals information on plague and bioterrorism aspect of thisdisease.Methods: This article is a literature review written based on search onarticles from library and internet resources (1990- 2016).Results: More than 2,000 species of bacteria have been identified in threemain groups of bacillus (rod-shaped), cocci (round and oval), and spiral.But only about 100 of them are known as pathogens and Less than 10species are used as biological agents for military application and one ofthem is plague agent. Yersinia pestis is a Gram negative, rod-shaped,anaerobic, member of the enterobacteriaceae family, and if be painted byColors Wright, Giemsa or Leeson will be seen bipolar under amicroscope.Conclusion: Nowadays, in spite of the progresses made in science andtechnology, human knowledge is relatively incapable to anticipate thetime and place of biological attacks. Therefore, being prepared and readyfor its unavoidable occurrence is necessary. So, regarding the importanceand necessity of readiness, officials and experts have to make an effortand plan against these hazards.