Safe handling of west Nile virus in the insectary

Abstract

Working with West Nile virus (WNV) in the insectary requires specific facilities and protocols to prevent laboratory- acquired infection. Here, we review case reports of individuals infected with members of the Flaviviridae while performing biomedical research in traditional laboratories and insectaries. We highlight the most common transmission route and summarize recommendations for facilities and protocols designed to prevent laboratory-acquired infections.