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Vaccinia Reporter Viruses for Quantifying Viral Function at All Stages of Gene Expression
Published on: May 15, 2014
Risks associated with vaccinia virus in the laboratory
Adam MacNeil1, Mary G Reynolds, Inger K Damon
1National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-Borne, and Enteric Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. aho3@cdc.gov
Vaccinia virus (VACV) is common in labs, but non-attenuated strains pose human health risks. Despite safety measures, laboratory exposures and infections in unvaccinated workers are still occurring, highlighting the need for careful risk management.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Laboratory Safety
- Occupational Health
Background:
- Vaccinia virus (VACV) is widely utilized in research settings.
- Non-highly attenuated VACV strains present potential human pathogenicity risks.
- Current recommendations include VACV vaccination and Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) protocols for handling these strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the common uses of Vaccinia virus in laboratory research.
- To outline the potential risks associated with handling VACV in a laboratory environment.
- To highlight recent incidents and the ongoing relevance of VACV safety protocols.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of VACV usage in research.
- Analysis of reported laboratory-related VACV exposures and infections.
- Discussion of current biosafety guidelines and recommendations.
Main Results:
- Despite recommended safety protocols, laboratory-related VACV exposures persist.
- Recent cases of VACV infection in unvaccinated laboratory workers have been documented.
- The potential for human infection remains a significant concern.
Conclusions:
- Continued vigilance and adherence to safety protocols are crucial when working with VACV.
- The risks associated with non-highly attenuated VACV strains necessitate ongoing evaluation of laboratory practices.
- Further research may be needed to enhance safety measures and mitigate exposure risks.
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