Dangerous Bacteria Mysteriously Escapes from high-security Laboratory

April 2nd, 2015
http://www.ewao.com/a/1-dangerous-bacteria-mysteriously-escapes-from-highsecurity-laboratory 

A deadly bacteria has reportedly escaped from a Secret laboratory in the United States.

According to the statement of the authorities of Louisiana, United States, a dangerous bacteria has somehow managed to escape from a high security laboratory. According to the experts, the bacteria called Burkholderia pseudomallei managed to escape by accident, from the Tulane National Primate Research Center, located approximately 80 kilometers from North New Orleans.

Researchers say that the bacteria is native to Southeast Asia and northern Australia, it can be transmitted to humans and animals through water or contaminated soil. 

If that wasn't bad enough, the bacteria has been classified by the authorities as a "potential bioterrorism agent."

The bacteria "got away" from scientists last November when researchers were working on a vaccine against the bacteria. According to researchers, the pathogen was not detected in the vicinity of the laboratory when scientists searched for traces of Burkholderia pseudomallei in the air and soil. Four monkeys were infected by the deadly virus and two of those infected had to euthanized according to a statement from the laboratory.

“The only connection among these four animals was their presence in the veterinary hospital during the same period of time,”
“The veterinary hospital has been thoroughly disinfected, and additional animal testing is ongoing,”  Dr. Andrew A. Lackner, the director of the center, said in a statement

What makes it highly dangerous is the fact that this bacteria can be used as a bioweapon according to the UPMC Center for Health Security. 

According to scientists, Melioidosis can cause severe fever, headaches, a loss of appetite and severe muscle and joint pain. The fatality rate of Melioidosis is up to 50 percent in some countries.

How many more of these types of bacteria has the risk of escaping research facilities is something that will remain as an enigma. This type of cases are considered a game changer in society. An outbreak caused by this type of bacteria can cause catastrophic consequences for any country/society, no matter how well they are prepared to treat it.