A scandal involving serious breaches of biosafety protocols has erupted in the Australian state of Queensland. Local authorities initiated an investigation after the mysterious disappearance of a significant number of virus samples from a scientific laboratory, "MIR 24" reports with reference to Fox News.
The incident, which occurred in August 2023, only recently became known. 323 ampoules containing potentially deadly viruses, including rare and especially dangerous strains, disappeared without a trace from a scientific institution.
Among the lost samples is Hendra virus, which is endemic to Australia and can cause severe complications in humans, including death. The list also includes lyssaviruses, among which is the rabies virus, which has a 100% mortality rate if left untreated.
Public Health Department specialists are conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of biological materials. Experts note that although the risk of mass spread is low due to the difficulty of transmitting viruses between people, the situation remains extremely serious.
It has not yet been established whether the samples were accidentally destroyed, thrown away or stolen. The investigation will also address issues of laboratory staff compliance with established regulatory requirements.