[Alas Babylon!]

Regardless of when this was discovered, the possiblities are endless. Perhaps we could "learn" this language of pheremones, and "teach" the bacteria to not be so deadly, or not produce certain toxins. This could lead to a whole new way to fight deadly diseases and illnesses.

[gore3000]

This could lead to a whole new way to fight deadly diseases and illnesses.

Yes indeed, and apparently some drug firms are already investigating the possibilities.