It's very unlikely that SARS-CoV-2 was created in a lab. The genetic information strongly suggests that the virus evolved naturally.
Is unintentional lab release a possibility? Yes, as the review commission has noted.
The last human case of smallpox was the result of a lab error in the UK. It is believed—though not proven—that a flu strain accidentally released in the former Soviet Union in the 1970s spread around the world.
But whether or not that was the case for SARS-CoV-2, lab security and safety need to be improved globally. Lab errors happen, and, as I noted 6 weeks ago, we should take action to reduce the risk of future errors. on.wsj.com/3roDmCg
Fewer labs should be working with dangerous pathogens or technologies that could create them, and fewer people should have access to these facilities. Each sensitive research investigation must clearly demonstrate why the potential benefits are greater than the risks.
Let's work together globally to make laboratories safer and reduce the risk of future health threats. Our fight should be against dangerous microbes, not each other.
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