He points out that, although the disease has been eliminated in the wild, frozen stocks of smallpox virus are still maintained by the governments of the United States and Russia. But Block is haunted by more than the threat of a smallpox attack. He saves his harshest criticism for his fellow biologists, most of whom have remained silent on the issue. The agent of choice for most biological warfare programs, writes Block, is anthrax. Anthrax spores are easy to produce and can remain viable for more than 100 years if kept dry and out of direct sunlight.
Anthrax also is relatively easy and safe to handle.
Moreover, a well-established vaccine exists that can prevent the onset of the disease, allowing it to be used safely by the aggressor. Block points out that genetic maps of deadly viruses, bacteria and other microorganisms already are widely available in the public domain. Last summer, for example, a leading scientific journal published the entire genetic code for the cholera pathogen. Any scientist bent on destruction could use this information to attempt to clone extremely virulent strains of bacteria and viruses, Block contends. I that finally led to a 1925 treaty banning bioweapons during future wars.