Japan lab to handle deadliest viruses for first time

[yuiyoshida]

A research lab in a Tokyo suburb will start handling some of the world's deadliest viruses for the first time, officials said Tuesday, after local opposition blocked it for decades

Tokyo (AFP) —

A research lab in a Tokyo suburb will start handling some of the world’s deadliest viruses for the first time, officials said Tuesday, after local opposition blocked it for decades.

Japan has no active maximum level-four bio-safety labs so the move will bring it in line with other G7 nations — there are about 40 such sites worldwide including some run by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The Tokyo lab was built in 1981 and designed to handle the most dangerous known viruses, requiring scientists to wear full body suits with oxygen intakes to avoid contamination.

But local opponents feared exposure, arguing that the neighborhood with schools and other community buildings would be at risk.

http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/japan-lab-to-handle-deadliest-viruses-for-first-time