Botulinum toxin is the most poisonous substance known to man.
Even a small amount is lethal. It is produced by bacteria in the
Clostridium genus. The US State Department reports that a number
of countries that support terrorism are developing or have the
toxin as a germ-warfare weapon. Some terrorists have tried
attacks using botulinum toxin produced from bacterial spores
found in the dirt. As a weapon, the toxin might be released in
the air or placed in the food supply. The toxin causes the
disease botulism. In tiny doses, the toxin is injected as a
treatment for medical conditions, such as eyelid muscle spasms,
migraine headaches, and others. Botulinum toxin poses a great
threat. It is easy to produce and transport. Only one gram of
the toxin evenly released and inhaled could kill one million
people. However, it is hard to keep stable for release in the
air. Some experts believe it would not work in stopping a
military enemy. US troops receive a botulinum toxoid vaccine to
prevent the disease if exposed to