In 2005 the sequence of the 1918 Spanish influenza was completed . Accompanied with phylogenetic analysis , it was possible to supply a detailed account of the virus ' evolution and behaviour , in particular its adaptation to humans . Following the sequencing of the Spanish influenza , the pathogen was also reconstructed . When inserted into mice , the pathogen proved to be incredibly deadly . The 2001 anthrax attacks shed light on the possibility of bioterrorism as being more of a real than imagined threat . Bioterrorism was anticipated in the Iraq war , with soldiers being inoculated for a smallpox attack . Using technologies and insight gained from reconstruction of the Spanish influenza , it may be possible to prevent future deadly planted outbreaks of disease . There is a strong ethical concern however , as to whether the resurrection of old viruses is necessary and whether it is actually more harm than good
2001 anthrax attacks
2001 anthrax attacks
Pathogenomics