ABSTRACT

There may be uncertainties about crucial facts such as the exact location or extent of the initial release, the type of biological agent used, and likelihood of additional releases. Laboratory scientists will work quickly to identify the specific agent. Epidemiologists will attempt to trace the path of infections back toward a single person, vector (insect or animal), vehicle (food or water), or other point of origin. Attribution of a biological attack is typically much more difficult than attribution of a conventional terrorist attack.