WHO updates guidelines to safeguard labs against emerging thre

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released updated guidelines for national authorities and biomedical laboratories to manage biological risks effectively.

The updated protocols introduce strengthened cybersecurity measures and improved handling of confidential information, such as patient records.

Additionally, WHO addresses the risks posed by new technologies, including genetic modification, manipulation of pathogens, and artificial intelligence (AI).

The guidelines also advise on maintaining laboratory safety during emergencies, including wars, civil unrest, natural disasters, and other factors.

A statement by the global health body on its website reads: “New updates in the guidance include the strengthening of cybersecurity measures and handling of confidential information such as patient records; reducing risks from new technologies, including those related to genetic modification and manipulation of pathogens, and artificial intelligence (AI); and advice on keeping laboratories safe and secure during emergencies like wars, civil unrest, and disasters from natural hazards.

“WHO’s updated laboratory biosecurity guidance helps all countries, especially those lacking regulations, establish or strengthen frameworks for handling high-consequence pathogens. It highlights the importance of strong institutional governance through an Institutional Biosafety Committee with national oversight.

“The updated guidance provides best practices and recommendations while encouraging Member States to adopt a risk-based approach, stipulated in the resolution on ‘Strengthening laboratory biological risk management’ adopted at the World Health Assembly this year.”

Developed in consultation with a wide array of stakeholders, including WHO collaborating centres and technical advisory groups like the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Biosafety (TAG-B), the guidance promotes engagement and commitment from both institutions and national authorities.

By adopting a risk-based approach, as recommended in the World Health Assembly’s resolution on ‘Strengthening laboratory biological risk management,’ these measures aim to mitigate the risks associated with high-consequence pathogens and research work.