National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories
The National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, or NEIDL, is a biosciences facility of Boston University located near Boston Medical Center on Albany Street in the South End neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts.
The lab is part of a national network of secure facilities that study infectious diseases, whether naturally occurring or introduced through bioterrorism. The Labs include a BSL-4 laboratory, which study the most dangerous and deadly human diseases.
History
On February 2, 2006, Boston Medical Center received regulatory approval from the federal government to fund construction of a biosafety laboratory on its medical campus in the South End, Boston.
There has been strong community opposition to the planned building, and BSL-2 level research did not begin until 2012 due to court injunctions. BSL-3 and BSL-4 level research is still anticipated to be launched in the future after alleviating community opposition.[1]
In early 2014, BSL-4 research was still being opposed by community groups including the Union Park Neighborhood Association and Boston City Councilor Charles Yancey who was conducting hearings on its safety and recommending a citywide ban on BSL-4 research.
The NEIDL was given final approval for BSL-4 research Boston Public Health Commission on December 6, 2017, with the support of Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. Every project at the lab will also need individual BPHC review and approval.[2]
Notes and references
External links
Coordinates: 42°20′10″N 71°04′07″W / 42.336016°N 71.068593°W