Queensland Health is currently investigating the disappearance of 323 virus-containing vials from an Australian public health laboratory, a situation authorities have described as the largest breach of biosecurity measures in history.
The incident involves samples of viruses, including Hendra, Lissa, and Hanta viruses, which went missing from the Public Health Virology Laboratory in 2021; however, it was only brought to light in August 2023.
Queensland Health Minister Timothy Nichols announced that a Part 9 investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of this alarming breach and to implement measures that may prevent future occurrences.
“We need to review current laboratory policies, and procedures, and ensure compliance with regulations,” he added.
Sources, including Fox News and ABC News, note the laboratory plays a crucial role in diagnosing and researching significant viruses and pathogens that can be transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks.
Dr. Samuel V. Scarpino, who leads AI + Life Sciences at Northeastern University’s Institute for Experiential AI, raised serious alarm over the lapse in biosecurity.
“Some Hanta virus variants have a 15% mortality rate, which is 100 times more severe than Covid-19,” he warned.
However, Dr. John Gerrard, Queensland’s chief health officer, has sought to mitigate public concern about the missing vials.
“There is no evidence of public risk,” he stated. “Viruses decay quickly once removed from freezer storage, significantly reducing transmission potential.”
Dr. Gerrard further noted that Queensland has not recorded any human infections from Hendra or Lissa viruses in the last five years, and confirmed there have been no reported cases of Hanta virus in Australia.
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