Which of the following lists are Category A bioterrorism agents?

• A. Anthrax, botulism, plague, smallpox, tularemia, viral hemorrhagic fevers
• B. Salmonella, brucellosis
• C. Hantavirus, Nipah
• D. Anthrax, plague, smallpox

Answer: (A)

Category A bioterrorism agents are the highest-priority because they can be easily disseminated or transmitted, cause high mortality, and have the potential for major public health impact. The best list includes anthrax, botulism (toxins), plague, smallpox, tularemia, and viral hemorrhagic fevers, all of which fit that high-risk profile. Botulism is included because the botulinum toxin is extremely potent and can produce rapid, life-threatening illness, making it a top concern even though it’s a toxin rather than a live organism. The other options mix in agents that are not in Category A: Salmonella and Brucella are typically categorized as Category B, being more limited in mortality and easier to manage; Hantavirus and Nipah are Category C, representing emerging threats with lower dissemination potential or higher uncertainty. A complete Category A list must encompass the six agents stated above, which is why that option is the best answer.