High-risk human-caused pathogen exposure events from 1975-2016

Area of Science:

• Biosecurity
• Pathogen Safety
• Risk Assessment

Background:

• Biological agents and infectious pathogens pose significant threats, as evidenced by natural pandemics.
• Human activities, distinct from natural outbreaks, can lead to Global Catastrophic Biological Risks.
• Existing efforts focus on reducing biological weapon risks and enhancing biosafety in research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile and analyze a dataset of incidents involving highly infectious pathogenic agents resulting from human activities.
• To better understand the risks associated with anthropic (human-caused) biological events.
• To identify potential areas for improvement in laboratory and bioweapon research safety procedures.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of a dataset of 71 incidents involving accidental or purposeful exposure to infectious pathogens.
• Focus on events stemming from human decisions and mistakes, excluding clinical treatment of natural outbreaks.
• Inclusion of diverse cases from various sources, including academic, policy, and unpublished materials.

Main Results:

• A dataset of 71 anthropic biological incidents was created.
• The incidents encompass a range of accidental and purposeful exposures to infectious agents.
• These events underscore the need for enhanced safety protocols in biological research and handling.

Conclusions:

• Human activities represent a significant source of biological risk.
• Improvements in laboratory choices and safety procedures can mitigate these risks.
• Further research and data collection on anthropic biological events are warranted to enhance global safety.