Microbial Forensics: The need to counter bioterrorism

Microbial forensics is a newer concept for many of us, but it gained importance earlier after the 2001, anthrax attack in U.S.A which killed 5 people. Following which a new dimension towards the forensic investigation of the microbes was evolved in which the species, serotype, phage type, genetic profile is identified to know whether the strain is from the naturally occurring zoonosis or is an independent strain developed in the laboratory. The Law enforcement agencies must be prepared to counter any biological attack. The Governments and the public should work together to meet the needs of biosecurity.