Title
Biosafety and biosecurity for Burkholderia pseudomallei and Burkholderia mallei: evidence, gaps, and sustainable practice in endemic, low-resource settings
Link to article in PubMed
Author(s)
Blacksell, Stuart
Le, Khanh Kim
Dhawan, Sandhya
Wuthiekanun, Vanaporn
Limmathurotsukul, Direk
Dunachie, Susanna
Norton, Robert
Day, Nicholas
Dance, David
Abstract
SUMMARY and present significant biosafety challenges due to their high pathogenicity, environmental resilience, intrinsic antimicrobial resistance, and potential use as bioterrorism agents. This review examines key aspects of laboratory management and infection control for these organisms, focusing on inconsistencies in biosafety protocols and risk classifications across regions. We synthesize current evidence on biocontainment requirements, disinfection strategies, and personal protective equipment (PPE), with particular emphasis on sustainable practices for laboratories in low-resource settings. Although laboratory-acquired infections are rare, their potential severity underscores the importance of stringent safety measures. Critical gaps remain in our understanding of infectious dose, the effectiveness of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and the development of risk assessment frameworks. We advocate for harmonized global biosafety standards and targeted research on transmission dynamics and inactivation protocols. These priorities are essential to enhance laboratory safety, especially in endemic areas, and to inform coherent international policy on containment and management.
Publication information
Clin Microbiol Rev . 2026 Mar 11:e0036925. doi: 10.1128/cmr.00369-25. Online ahead of print.
Date Issued
2026-03-11
Type
Journal Article
Journal Title
Clinical microbiology reviews
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