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Published on: October 3, 2016
The Biosafety Research Road Map: The Search for Evidence to Support Practices in the Laboratory-Foot and Mouth
Stuart D Blacksell1,2, Sandhya Dhawan1, Marina Kusumoto1
1Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Research Medicine Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Introduction:
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious infection of cloven-hoofed animals. The Biosafety Research Road Map reviewed scientific literature regarding the foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV). This project aims to identify gaps in the data required to conduct evidence-based biorisk assessments, as described by Blacksell et al., and strengthen control measures appropriate for local and national laboratories.
Methods:
A literature search was conducted to identify potential gaps in biosafety and focused on five main sections: the route of inoculation/modes of transmission, infectious dose, laboratory-acquired infections, containment releases, and disinfection and decontamination strategies.
Results:
The available data regarding biosafety knowledge gaps and existing evidence have been collated. Some gaps include the need for more scientific data that identify the specific safety contribution of engineering controls, support requirements for showering out after in vitro laboratory work, and whether a 3- to 5-day quarantine period should be applied to individuals conducting in vitro versus in vivo work. Addressing these gaps will contribute to the remediation and improvement of biosafety and biosecurity systems when working with FMDV.
Insights
This study identifies critical biosafety gaps for foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) research. Addressing these knowledge gaps will enhance biorisk assessments and improve laboratory safety protocols for FMDV.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Biosafety and Biosecurity
Background:
- Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral infection affecting cloven-hoofed animals.
- The foot and mouth disease virus (FMDV) poses significant risks in laboratory settings.
- Effective control measures rely on robust biosafety and biosecurity protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review scientific literature on FMDV biosafety.
- To identify data gaps crucial for evidence-based biorisk assessments.
- To strengthen control measures for laboratories working with FMDV.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a literature search focusing on FMDV biosafety.
- Examined key areas: inoculation routes, infectious dose, lab-acquired infections, containment breaches, and disinfection.
- Collated existing data and identified knowledge deficits.
Main Results:
- Identified specific biosafety knowledge gaps concerning FMDV.
- Highlighted the need for data on engineering controls' safety contribution.
- Questioned the necessity of showering out and quarantine periods for specific lab activities.
Conclusions:
- Addressing identified biosafety gaps is essential for improving FMDV laboratory safety.
- Enhanced data will support more accurate biorisk assessments.
- Recommendations will strengthen biosafety and biosecurity for FMDV research.
