The laboratory of Unicamp (State University of Campinas) from which research materials were taken operates under biosafety level 3 (NB-3), a classification considered to be of high individual risk and moderate risk to the community, according to the Ministry of Health. The university confirmed the information in a note issued this Sunday (29).
According to the classification, NB-3 environments are intended for handling biological agents with transmission capacity, especially via the respiratory route, and or even lethal in humans and animals.
Despite the risk, these agents usually have prophylactic and therapeutic measures available. Examples include the Bacillus anthracis and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
According to the university’s rectory, the Laboratory of Virology and Applied Biotechnology at the Institute of Biology follows compatible with this level.
In a statement, the institution stated that the episode was “an isolated case”, arising from atypical circumstances, and that it is being investigated by the authorities.
“As soon as it became aware of the incident, the university contacted the Federal Police and the National Health Surveillance Agency, which resulted in the rapid location and seizure of the stolen materials and, in parallel, a “, says the note.
Unicamp also reported that there were no genetically modified organisms among the items taken. The motivation for the crime and the possible involvement of other individuals or legal entities remain under federal investigation.
Finally, the institution reiterated that the case does not compromise its safety standards and reinforced its commitment to scientific production and academic training, highlighting that the university is among the best evaluated in Latin America.
