Why are some deadly viruses like smallpox and Ebola kept in laboratories? Are they dangerous?
November 5, 2024
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Scientists have to hide it while trying to prevent contamination. why do they think? While some may object, the rationale for hiding dangerous viruses in general is Protecting
Scientists have to hide it while trying to prevent contamination. why do they think?
While some may object, the rationale for hiding dangerous viruses in general is Protecting our future. But how is this possible while remaining hidden?
Why are dangerous viruses kept in laboratories?
Some diseases have seriously threatened humanity in the past and are now hidden even though they do not spread. For example, smallpox The disease devastated the world in the early 20th century, but was declared completely eradicated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1980, thanks to a successful vaccination campaign.
Samples of the smallpox virus In laboratories of some countries, such as the US and Russia still hiding. So why take this risk?
The main reason for this is that if viruses are completely eliminated, problems may arise in the future. We may have difficulty dealing with a similar epidemic thought.
like smallpox dangerous viruses, It is protected because it contains potential data that could be used in the future for genetic information and vaccine research into the disease.
Some of these diseases are considered dangerous enough to be used as tools of biological warfare.
This requires states or international institutions to store data on these diseases in laboratories. strategic makes it mandatory.
Any type of smallpox virus by a terrorist or hostile force The possibility that it could be used for a biological attack requires scientists to be constantly alert to the subject.
Thanks to these viruses kept in laboratories, we can quickly counter such an attack if it occurs. treatment and vaccines Possibility to work on it is possible.
How does storing viruses contribute to scientific research?
Another important reason is continuity of scientific progress. Research into dangerous viruses plays a very important role in the development process of vaccines and treatments.
Special Global pandemics such as COVID-19 The trial allowed scientists to accelerate the development of a new vaccine by studying older strains of the coronavirus.
Likewise, research on viruses such as Ebola and smallpox is also useful against similar epidemics that may occur in the future. It allows us to be prepared.
Studying the genetic material of these viruses makes them more effective against disease production of vaccines that will provide immunity It allows it.
The Ebola virus stored in laboratories has led scientists to learn how the disease spreads, attacks the human body and understand how the immune system responds to this virus It helps. Treatments and protective measures developed in light of this information are one of the important steps taken toward protecting global health.
Risk or protection for humanity?
Of course, storing dangerous viruses in laboratories comes with some risks. One of the most discussed topics is the possibility of accidental release.
To avoid the risk, laboratories very strict security protocols is implemented. These protocols include measures such as biosecurity measures, the obligation to work in high-security facilities and making viruses accessible to a certain number of researchers.
However, despite these risks, it may be useful in the future to protect diseases in laboratories rather than eradicate them completely. in health crises It is thought to increase humanity’s chances of survival.
As a result, the hidden viruses It acts as insurance and it is an attempt to provide humanity with long-term security.
Sources: How Stuff Works, Government of Canada, Passport Health
Ashley Johnson is a science writer for “Div Bracket”. With a background in the natural sciences and a passion for exploring the mysteries of the universe, she provides in-depth coverage of the latest scientific developments.