Queensland lab loses infectious virus samples; investigation underway to assess security breach.

Queensland Health is investigating a significant breach at a state virology lab where infectious virus samples, including Hendra, Lyssavirus, and Hantavirus, went missing in August 2023. Though described as a serious breach, health officials say the risk to the public is minimal as the samples would degrade rapidly outside a freezer. The investigation, ordered by Health Minister Tim Nicholls, aims to determine if the samples were removed or destroyed. Former Supreme Court Justice Martin Daubney will lead the probe.

4 months ago
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