21:00, 27-Jan-2018
Fighting Pathogens: Basics of China's first Bio-safety P4 lab
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This biosafety laboratory will be used to study class-four pathogens. That refers to the most virulent viruses in the world, which pose a high risk of aerosol transmission between humans.
There are currently at least 56 P4 labs across five continents, studying the 20 most dangerous pathogens in the world. Most of the P4 labs are in Europe and North America.
China's P4 laboratory is the first of its kind in Asia, analysing three class four pathogens. These are the Ebola virus, Nipah virus and Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever virus. Researchers have to put on protective suits and pass five air-tight doors before entering the laboratory.
The Wuhan lab has three main functions. First, it will serve as China's research and development center for prevention and control of infectious diseases. Second, as the prevention center of virulent pathogens and UN reference lab for severe infectious diseases. And third, as a major regional platform for China's bio-safety lab systems.