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Coccidioides immitis as a potential bioweapon
1Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, San Jose, CA 95128, USA. polishmd@earthlink.net
Seminars in Respiratory Infections
|September 25, 2003
Summary
Coccidioides immitis is a soil fungus causing Valley fever upon inhalation. While it could theoretically be used in bioterrorism, its effectiveness is uncertain due to significant obstacles.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Biosecurity
Background:
- Coccidioides immitis is a fungus found in southwestern US and Central/South American soils.
- Infection occurs through inhaling airborne arthroconidia.
- The fungus has potential implications for bioterrorism due to aerosol transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the potential of Coccidioides immitis as a bioweapon.
- To evaluate the feasibility and likely impact of aerosolized C. immitis deployment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on C. immitis epidemiology and transmission.
- Analysis of factors influencing aerosolized fungal agent efficacy.
- Assessment of potential biological and logistical challenges.
Main Results:
- Coccidioides immitis is endemic to specific arid regions.
- Natural infection is via inhalation of arthroconidia.
- Aerosolized C. immitis presents theoretical bioterrorism potential but faces significant obstacles.
Conclusions:
- The use of Coccidioides immitis as a bioweapon is possible but likely limited.
- Obstacles in delivery and effect make its impact uncertain.
- Further research into fungal bioweapon potential is warranted.