Animal Health and Infectious Diseases

Animal Health and Infectious Diseases

Arthropod or biological weapon?

Document Type : Review

Authors
1 Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran
2 Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lorestan University, Khorramabad, Iran
Abstract
Background and Aim: Many people recognize arthropods merely as nuisance creatures or vectors of dangerous diseases, and for this reason, they seek to combat and destroy them. However, the reality is that there are much more important dimensions to this issue that are often overlooked. One of the main concerns in biological research and control is the threat of "bioterrorism." As one of the most destructive weapons available, bioterrorism, with its low cost, easy access and preparation, high efficiency and effectiveness, as well as rapid spread, is readily available to terrorist groups. One of the important tools in bioterrorism is the use of insects as disease vectors; a topic that is often neglected. These creatures, as biological warfare agents, easily cross borders, reproduce rapidly, and are able to spread various diseases on a large scale in a short period of time. This poses a serious threat to global health security. This article aims to address recent concerns about the use of insects as biological weapons and emphasize the importance of this issue in health security around the world. Another goal of this article is to draw the attention of researchers in the fields of biomedicine and health to the potential dangers of using arthropods as biological weapons.
Conclusion: The aim is to direct future research priorities to these important and vital issues so that appropriate solutions can be provided to counter these threats. This issue is not only a scientific challenge, but also a vital security and health issue for human societies.
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Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 July 2025

  • Receive Date 30 December 2024
  • Revise Date 06 January 2025
  • Accept Date 10 March 2025
  • First Publish Date 20 July 2025
  • Publish Date 20 July 2025