The WHO has issued updated guidance for national authorities and biomedical laboratories to manage biological risks, emphasizing the importance of well-designed facilities, trained staff, and evidence-based risk mitigation measures to protect both the workforce and the community from harmful microorganisms and toxins. The WHO’s guidance focuses on enhancing cybersecurity, managing confidential information, and mitigating risks associated with new technologies like genetic modification, pathogen manipulation, and AI. Additionally, the guidance provides strategies for maintaining lab security during emergencies such as wars, civil unrest, and natural disasters.
The updated guidance aims to help countries, particularly those without existing regulations, establish or strengthen frameworks for handling high-risk pathogens. It underscores the importance of strong institutional governance…
