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H5N1

A Case Study for Dual-Use Research

A technician carries out a test on a suspected infected sample using the H7N9 bird flu virus test reagents at the centre for diseases control and prevention in Hefei, Anhui province, on April 5, 2013. (Stringer/Reuters)

BY

  • Gigi K. Gronvall
    Senior Associate, Center for Health Security, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Overview

Gigi Gronvall examines the controversy surrounding the publication of two H5N1 flu–transmission studies as a case study to illuminate why dual-use research of concern is not just a problem for scientists. This paper clarifies the arguments that arose for and against publication, offers lessons learned regarding future dual-use research to scientists, research directors, publishers, and policymakers, and promotes a reasonable consideration of the risks and benefits of dual-use research.

To learn more about the broader implications of this H5N1 debate and dual-use research of concern, view a short video here.t