Deadly virus samples went missing from lab in ‘ major biosecurity breach ’ say authorities.y #Virus

A significant biosecurity breach occurred in Queensland, Australia, in August 2020, involving the disappearance of 323 samples of deadly viruses, including Hendra, Lyssa, and Hanta viruses. While the viruses pose a low risk of person-to-person transmission, the incident prompted a government investigation. Although some Hanta viruses are highly lethal, no recent infections from Hendra or Lyssa viruses have been reported in Queensland. An expert commented on the minimal immediate risk but stressed the importance of finding the missing samples and criticised the delayed media reporting. The incident highlights the potential dangers of unsecured biological materials.