How long does an agent stay active in certain environments (air, food, water)?
• Some agents, such as anthrax, may have several ways of infection that make it a more flexible agent of choice. Other agents may only infect people through one route of exposure. Particulate Dissemination Particulate dissemination is usually introduced to the body through inhalation (breathing into the lungs) of small particles that are in the air (aerosolized), and absorption through the skin. This is the method of greatest concern for most public health professionals since it offers terrorists the greatest ability to reach a large number of people in any one attack. Particulate dissemination can be done using either dry or wet forms of an agent, such as a fine powder or mist. Food or Water Dissemination Another route of concern, but historically shown to be less effective in harming large numbers of victims, is by eating or drinking contaminated food or water. Water contamination is not a likely target for terrorists because of the large amount of agent needed and the regular treatm
