 |
 SIGA is applying its proprietary drug discovery process to some of the most dangerous viral biothreats facing the world today: category A, B, and C agents for which there are no adequate countermeasures. The most deadly pathogens, those in category A, are considered highly likely for use as biological weapons, and most require biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) containment for laboratory work. In addition to smallpox and anthrax, the category A list also includes hemorrhagic fever viruses such as Lassa fever, Ebola, Marburg, and Junín, as well as Dengue fever and bunyavirus. These pathogens cause viral hemorrhagic fevers with high fatality rates and, if used intentionally, have enormous potential for mass casualties. Although SIGA’s antiviral efforts are directed primarily at smallpox and other category A agents, its drug discovery process is likely to lead indirectly to the development of additional countermeasures against category B and C threats. SIGA’s anti-bacterial program includes development of a new class of agents to combat various bacteria, including varieties of Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, and others that are highly resistant to existing antibiotics. |