Hundreds of dangerous virus samples have gone missing from a laboratory in Queensland, Australia, prompting an investigation into a major breach of biosecurity protocols.
The Queensland Health Department has been tasked with examining the disappearance of 323 vials containing infectious viruses, including Hendra virus, Lyssavirus, and Hantavirus, from the Public Health Virology Laboratory in August 2023.
The viruses in question are known to pose significant health risks. Hendra is a zoonotic virus found only in Australia, while Hantavirus and Lyssavirus can lead to severe illness or death, with Lyssavirus linked to rabies.
The laboratory, which provides diagnostic services and conducts research on viruses and pathogens, has stated that there is no evidence of risk to the community.
Authorities are investigating whether the samples were stolen or destroyed, and the case has triggered a formal “Part 9 investigation” into the breach.
