What is the intentional release of toxic biologic agents to harm citizens called?

The intentional release of toxic biological agents to harm citizens is known as bio-terrorism. This term specifically refers to the use of biological agents such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins to inflict harm on a population for political, ideological, or social objectives. Bio-terrorism poses a significant threat to public safety as it can lead to widespread fear, illness, and disruption, effectively leveraging the fear of disease as a weapon.

In the context of public safety telecommunications, understanding bio-terrorism is crucial for effective emergency response and ensuring the safety of the community. It involves not only the identification and response to the attack itself but also the coordination with public health agencies to manage and contain the situation. Effective communication and readiness of telecommunicators can play a significant role in mitigating the impact of such incidents.