Biosecurity Breach Identified
Health Minister announced the disappearance of 323 virus samples, including Hendra, , and , from the Public Health Virology Laboratory, marking a serious biosecurity breach.
The breach was detected in August 2023, with over 100 samples containing the potentially deadly Hendra virus among the missing vials.
Public Safety and Response
Officials assert there is no current risk to the public, as the samples would degrade rapidly outside of proper storage conditions, becoming non-infectious.
A "Part 9 investigation" has been launched to explore the breach's specifics and to review laboratory policies and procedures, including staff conduct and regulatory compliance.