tldrdaily.news logo
Tag

Bioterrorism

All articles tagged with #bioterrorism

science-and-technology2 years ago

Top Scientist Warns of Potential Pandemic Threat from 'Deranged Loner'

Lord Rees, a prominent scientist, warned that a "deranged loner" could unleash a pandemic using easily accessible biotech expertise and off-the-shelf equipment, emphasizing the increasing availability of laboratories, equipment, and expertise globally. He urged for enhanced security and independent monitoring of level four labs researching lethal pathogens, and cautioned that the world is unprepared for the moral and practical challenges posed by the growing empowerment of malign, tech-savvy groups in biotech.

via The Telegraph|
#biosecurity#bioterrorism#laboratory-leaks
health2 years ago

Anthrax Outbreaks Surge in Africa, Threatening Lives

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a warning about the alarming spread of anthrax in Zambia and neighboring African countries, including Kenya, Malawi, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. These countries have recorded a total of 1166 suspected and 37 confirmed cases of anthrax, with 20 related deaths reported so far this year. While anthrax is typically present in these regions, the situation has escalated beyond what is usual, particularly in Zambia. The WHO has raised concerns about the risk of regional spread and emphasizes the need for swift treatment with antibiotics and antitoxin, as anthrax can be fatal.

via Forbes|
#africa#anthrax#bioterrorism
health2 years ago

"Updated CDC Guidelines Combat Anthrax in 2023"

The CDC has updated its guidelines for the prevention and treatment of anthrax, including recommendations for preferred antimicrobial drugs and antitoxins. The guidelines also provide alternative regimens for patients with contraindications or intolerances to first-line drugs, as well as in the event of a wide-area aerosol release of Bacillus anthracis spores or the use of multidrug-resistant strains. The report includes new recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of anthrax meningitis. The guidelines are intended for healthcare providers, emergency preparedness officials, and planners.

via CDC|
#anthrax#bioterrorism#cdc-guidelines
health2 years ago

"Updated CDC Guidelines Combat Anthrax in 2023"

The CDC has updated its guidelines for the prevention and treatment of anthrax, including recommendations for preferred antimicrobial drugs and antitoxins. The guidelines also provide alternative regimens for patients with contraindications or intolerances to first-line drugs, as well as in the event of a wide-area aerosol release of Bacillus anthracis spores or the use of multidrug-resistant strains. The report includes new recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of anthrax meningitis. The guidelines are intended for healthcare providers, emergency preparedness officials, and planners.

via CDC|
#anthrax#bioterrorism#cdc-guidelines
gaming2 years ago

"Unveiling the Deadly Terminus Outcomes in Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3's Zombies Mode"

Call of Duty's upcoming Modern Warfare 3 game will feature a new Zombies mode set in the modern era, where the undead are used as a bioterrorism threat. Players will join Task Force 141 in an open-world, PvE survival experience to contain the zombie outbreak. The mode continues the Dark Aether narrative from previous Call of Duty games and introduces new characters and gameplay elements. Modern Warfare 3 will be released on November 10 for multiple platforms.

via Polygon|
#bioterrorism#call-of-duty#gaming
health2 years ago

Invasive Bacteria Threatens Southern Gulf States: CDC Warning.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned about the potentially deadly invasive bacteria, Burkholderia pseudomallei, found in fresh water and soil in states along the Gulf of Mexico. The bacteria can be deadly to immunocompromised people, but most healthy individuals who get it shake it off without missing a beat. The bacteria is not prevalent in the environment yet, but it is always concerning when a new organism that should be in another part of the world is found in yours. Generally healthy people don't have to worry, but underlying conditions increase the risk.

via USA TODAY|
#bioterrorism#cdc#gulf-of-mexico
technology2 years ago

The Dual Potential of AI in Pandemics: Sparking or Saving Lives.

Large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT can provide detailed instructions on how to carry out a biological weapons attack or build a bomb, making it easier for non-experts to access such information. While Google and other search engines have made it difficult to learn how to commit acts of terrorism, LLMs pose a new threat. Experts suggest better controls at all chokepoints, including requiring DNA synthesis companies to screen orders and removing papers about dangerous viruses from training data for powerful AI systems. Positive actors in the biotech world are taking this threat seriously, with Ginkgo Bioworks partnering with US intelligence agencies to develop software that can detect engineered DNA at scale.

via Vox.com|
#ai#bioterrorism#google