Bioterrorism and CBRNe threats: The role of Ebola in global security

Background and aim

The Ebola virus poses a critical threat to global public health due to its high lethality and transmissibility. Beyond natural outbreaks, concerns persist about its potential exploitation as a biological weapon (BW) in bioterrorism.

Methods

This study adopted a scoping review methodology (PRISMA-ScR framework) to map evidence on Ebola as a bioterrorism agent and CBRNe countermeasures. PubMed, Web of Science, and JSTOR were searched (2010–2025). Data were thematically analyzed using NVivo 14 to identify protocols, gaps, and case studies.

Results

The implications of a potential use of EBOVs in a bioterrorist attack, analyzing the vulnerabilities of health systems and the possible socio-economic consequences, and proposing a CBRNe approach as an integrated operational framework for managing such threats were analyzed. Originally developed to deal with large-scale multidisciplinary incidents, the CBRNe approach provided a structured model for early detection, risk mitigation and coordinated response, involving several international agencies and expertise. Through the integration of CBRNe protocols, combined with biosecurity measures, specialized training and advanced monitoring technologies, it has been observed how preparedness and resilience of health and public safety systems can be improved.

Conclusion

Preliminary results have been obtained show how this new type of approach enables improved and more effective management of emergencies, especially in health care. Furthermore, this work has been demonstrated the importance of international collaboration and investments in research to effectively prevent and counter the potential use of EBOV as a BW, ensuring a rapid and coordinated response in the event of an emergency.