Which bacterium is recognized as a potential agent of bioterrorism?

• A. Bacillus anthracis
• B. Yersinia pestis
• C. Clostridium botulinum
• D. Variola virus

Answer: (B)

High-priority bioterrorism agents are those that can cause rapid, severe illness and pose a major public health threat. Yersinia pestis, the bacterium that causes plague, is identified as such a concern. It is classified among the agents of greatest danger because pneumonic plague can spread through respiratory droplets, leading to fast, severe disease and high mortality if not treated promptly. This combination of potential for airborne spread and serious outcomes makes Yersinia pestis a recognized bacterium of concern in bioterrorism preparedness and detection. The other options include a toxin-producing bacterium and a virus, which are important hazards but do not fit the same bacterium category highlighted in this question.