Why do scientists think they should hide it while trying to prevent contamination?
Although some may object, the reason for hiding dangerous viruses in general is to protect our future. But how is this possible while hiding it?
Why are dangerous viruses preserved in laboratories?
Some diseases have seriously threatened humanity in the past and are now hidden even if they are not spreading. For example, smallpox ravaged the world at the beginning of the 20th century, but was declared completely eradicated by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1980, thanks to a successful vaccination campaign.
Despite this, smallpox virus samples are still stored in laboratories of some countries such as the USA and Russia. So why take this risk?
The main reason for this is the idea that if viruses are completely eliminated, we may have difficulty coping with a similar epidemic that may occur in the future.
Dangerous viruses such as smallpox are protected because they have potential data that can be used in the future for genetic information about the disease and vaccine research.
Some of these diseases are considered dangerous enough to be used as a biological warfare tool.
This makes it strategically necessary for states or international institutions to store data on these diseases in laboratories.
The possibility of using the smallpox virus for a biological attack by any terrorist or hostile force requires scientists to be constantly vigilant on this issue.
Thanks to these viruses kept in laboratories, it is possible to work on treatments and vaccines that can quickly counter such an attack when it occurs.
How does storing viruses contribute to scientific studies?
Another important reason is the continuity of scientific progress. Studies on dangerous viruses play a very important role in the vaccine and treatment development process.
Especially during global pandemics like COVID-19, scientists have been able to speed up the development of a new vaccine by studying older strains of coronavirus.
Likewise, research on viruses such as Ebola and smallpox allows us to be prepared for similar epidemics that may occur in the future.
Working on the genetic material of these viruses allows the production of vaccines that will provide more effective immunity against diseases.
The Ebola virus stored in laboratories helps scientists understand how the disease spreads, how it attacks the human body, and how the immune system responds to this virus. Treatments and protective measures developed in the light of this information are one of the important steps taken towards protecting global health.
Risk or protection for humanity?
Of course, storing dangerous viruses in laboratories brings with it some risks. One of the most frequently discussed topics is the possibility of accidental release of these viruses.
To prevent risks, very strict safety protocols are applied in laboratories. These protocols include measures such as biosecurity measures, the obligation to work in high-security facilities, and making viruses accessible to a certain number of researchers.
However, despite these risks, it is thought that preserving diseases in laboratories instead of completely eradicating them increases humanity’s chances of survival in future health crises.
As a result, the hidden viruses function as insurance and are an effort to provide long-term security for humanity.
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