Handbook of Viral Bioterrorism and Biodefense

The atrocities of 11 September 2001 and the more recent casualties due to anthrax bioterrorism have dramatically emphasized the potential danger of biological warfare and bioterrorism. The editors of "Antiviral Research" have taken the initiative to edit a special issue of the Journal, focusing on Viral Bioterrorism and Biodefense. It is the first time in history that a special volume has been dedicated to this topic, which in view of the current circumstances is timely, appropriate and relevant. To what extent could viruses be "weaponized", i.e. turned into biological weapons, and used for biowarfare, which viruses would lend themselves for this purpose, how should we estimate the risk and the consequences, which diagnostic measures should be taken, and how should we react prophylactically, and, if needed, therapeutically?