Question

Anthrax plaque and –are biologic agent used in terrorism that are treated effectively with antibiotics?

1) Rabies
2) Smallpox
3) Influenza
4) None of the above

Answer 1

The biological agents associated with bioterrorism—Anthrax and Plague—are treatable with antibiotics, but among the options provided (Rabies, Smallpox, Influenza), none are bacterial pathogens effectively treated with antibiotics.

Step-by-step explanation:

Anthrax, caused by Bacillus anthracis, resulted in significant casualties during the 2001 bioterrorism incident in the United States where spores were mailed to individuals. Antibiotics such as penicillin, erythromycin, and tetracycline are effective treatments for anthrax infections. Pneumonic plague, caused by Yersinia pestis, is another concern for bioterrorism and is also treatable with antibiotics.

Rabies, on the other hand, is a viral disease and is not typically associated with bioterrorism, nor is it treated with antibiotics. It can be prevented through vaccination and treated with a series of vaccines after potential exposure. Smallpox, a viral infection eradicated in nature, could be potentially used in bioterrorism but there is no antibiotic treatment for it; rather, a specific vaccine is available for its prevention and response to exposure. Influenza is a viral respiratory infection that is not effectively treated with antibiotics, which target bacteria, not viruses.