Queensland Health tightens protocol after virus samples disappear
The authorities are investigating the disappearance of 323 virus-containing vials from a public health lab in what is being called the ‘largest breach of biosecurity measures in history’
Queensland Health is investigating the disappearance of 323 virus-containing vials from an Australian public health laboratory, in what authorities are calling the "largest breach of biosecurity measures in history".
The state government said on Monday that samples of viruses like Hendra, Lissa, and Hanta vanished from the Public Health Virology Laboratory in 2021, but the incident only came to light in August 2023.
Queensland Health Minister Timothy Nichols said a Part 9 investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the incident and prevent future occurrences.
"We need to review current laboratory policies, and procedures, and ensure compliance with regulations," he added.
According to sources including Fox News and ABC News, the laboratory is a critical centre for diagnosing and researching medically significant viruses and pathogens transmitted by mosquitoes and ticks.
Dr Samuel V Scarpino, director of AI + Life Sciences at Northeastern University's Institute for Experiential AI, expressed serious concerns about the biosecurity lapse.
"Some Hanta virus variants have a 15% mortality rate, which is 100 times more severe than Covid-19," he warned.
Dr John Gerrard, Queensland's chief health officer, however, sought to allay public fears.
"There is no evidence of public risk," he said. "Viruses decay quickly once removed from freezer storage, significantly reducing transmission potential."
He noted that Queensland has not seen any human infections from Hendra or Lissa viruses in the past five years, and confirmed there have been no Hanta virus cases in Australia.
Virus Overview
- Hendra: An animal-to-human transmitted virus unique to Australia
- Hanta: A virus family that can cause severe illness and potential fatality
- Lissa: A virus group capable of causing rabies-like symptoms
While the exact circumstances remain unclear — whether the samples were stolen or damaged — Queensland Health has implemented proactive measures, including training staff and enhancing material storage inspections.
While acknowledging the government's serious approach, Dr Scarpino criticised the delay in public disclosure: "It's difficult to accept that these details have only emerged more than a year after the incident."
The investigation continues to determine the precise circumstances of the missing virus samples.
