The Landscape of High-Containment Biological Laboratories in Brazil: Current Status and Perspectives

High-containment biological laboratories (HCBLs) are specialized facilities designed for handling high-risk biological agents. The lack of data regarding the quantity, condition, and distribution of these laboratories in Brazil poses challenges for governmental strategic decisions.

This research sought to offer a comprehensive view of the present condition of Brazilian HCBLs, highlighting their quantity, geographical distribution, function, operational range, and commissioning and certification processes.

A questionnaire was designed to collect data on the construction and operation of Brazilian HCBLs and was disseminated to facilities nationwide, identifying themselves as HCBLs.

In this survey, 66 HCBLs were identified across Brazil, with 32 participating in the study. A majority of the laboratories were associated with public universities, predominantly in the Southeast region. The pathogens most frequently handled were SARS-CoV-2 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Among the responding laboratories, ∼85% were engaged in research activities, <50% reported being part of a national network, a mere 15.6% were connected to international laboratory networks, and ∼50% reported obtaining certification before operational launch.

Establishing a national regulatory framework in Brazil for the design, construction, commissioning, and certification of HCBLs is crucial to standardize and harmonize procedures across the country. Furthermore, implementing a national policy for laboratory biosafety and biosecurity, alongside establishing a "National HCBLs Network", is essential to foster multidisciplinary and collaborative efforts, thereby optimizing resource allocation. Such enhancements in biosafety and biosecurity protocols will significantly benefit both animal and public health domestically and contribute positively to global health outcomes.