Investment in biosafety and biosecurity: the need for a risk-based approach and systematic reporting of laboratory accidents to mitigate laboratory-acquired infections and pathogen escapes
Stuart D. Blacksell, Kathrin Summermatter, Zibusiso M. Masuku, Kazunobu Kojima, Emma Ross, David R. Harper, Keith Hamilton
Abstract
In the realm of high-consequence pathogens, laboratory-acquired infections (LAIs) and accidental pathogen escapes from laboratories can have far-reaching and severe implications for individuals, animals, and the environment. These occurrences are a great concern for a wide range of stakeholders, including laboratory workers, managers, those in the scientific research community and industry, policy makers, political leaders, and the general public. It is vitally important to take all necessary measures to mitigate the risks associated with such occurrences as the consequences of these events can be significant and long-lasting.