If handling C. burnetii samples at a laboratory, what is the required biosafety level?

Coxiella burnetii, the bacterium that causes Q fever, is considered a potential biothreat organism due to its ability to cause disease in humans and its environmental resilience. Handling C. burnetii samples requires a biosafety level of 3 (BSL-3) because this level is designed to contain pathogens that can cause serious or lethal diseases through inhalation.

At BSL-3, laboratory personnel must follow strict protocols that include working in a laboratory with physical containment features such as sealed windows, directional airflow, and controlled access. Additionally, individuals must wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and face shields to minimize the risk of exposure. The use of biological safety cabinets for manipulating cultures is also required to prevent aerosol transmission.

In summary, the requirement for BSL-3 reflects the inherent risks associated with working with pathogens like C. burnetii, emphasizing the need for enhanced safety measures to protect laboratory personnel and the surrounding community.