Which of the following is a primary concern when exposed to biological warfare agents?

Focusing on the choice of infection, this is a primary concern when exposed to biological warfare agents because these agents are specifically designed to cause disease in humans, animals, or plants. Biological warfare agents can include bacteria, viruses, or toxins that lead to serious illnesses, which can spread rapidly in a population. The risk of infection emphasizes the critical need for effective medical response and containment strategies, including vaccination and antibiotics, to prevent widespread harm.

While immediate physical injury, environmental contamination, and psychological impact may be concerns in the context of biological warfare, they are not as directly tied to the inherent characteristics of biological agents. Immediate physical injury is more associated with chemical or explosive agents. Environmental contamination may be a concern but is secondary to the biological effects of infection on the population. Psychological impact is significant but often stems from the fear and uncertainty surrounding potential infections rather than the core threat itself. Thus, infection remains the central focus when addressing the threats posed by biological warfare agents.