Glanders: Historical military use and potential bioterrorism concern

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Microbiology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Biosecurity

Background:

• Burkholderia mallei is the bacterium responsible for glanders, a zoonotic disease primarily affecting equines but also posing risks to human health.
• Glanders, though rare, remains endemic in certain regions, presenting ongoing animal and public health concerns.
• Historically, B. mallei was utilized as a biological weapon, and its classification as a Category B bioterrorism agent necessitates continued vigilance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of Burkholderia mallei and glanders.
• To consolidate information on pathogenesis, clinical signs, diagnostics, and prevention strategies.
• To highlight the historical context of B. mallei as a biological weapon and its implications for biosecurity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing research on B. mallei and glanders.
• Analysis of pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic challenges.
• Examination of historical usage and biosecurity implications.

Main Results:

• The review consolidates current knowledge on glanders, covering its epidemiology, clinical presentation in animals and humans, and diagnostic approaches.
• It identifies challenges in treatment and vaccination, alongside the bacterium's potential for severe systemic infections.
• The historical use of B. mallei as a biological weapon and its relevance to modern biosecurity are discussed.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of B. mallei is crucial due to its zoonotic potential, diagnostic difficulties, and bioterrorism threat.
• Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps, particularly concerning effective treatments and vaccines.
• Enhanced surveillance, improved diagnostics, and informed policies are essential for mitigating risks associated with this neglected zoonosis.