Something in the air

Abstract

The transport of infectious pathogens is considered by the United Nations (UN) and almost all world governments to be a relatively dangerous activity. It is felt that without the existence of strict governing regulations, there would be laxity and negligence on the part of both shippers and transporters, resulting in the risk of individual and community infection. Therefore, international and national dangerous goods regulations include sections on classifying and shipping infectious pathogens worldwide. Over the years these rules have been shaped, modified and revised. There is no reason to believe that the future will hold anything different. Thus this article, which covers only air transport, may be considered current so long as there are no new significant rule changes. This reiterates that it is wise for all parties involved in the transport of infectious pathogens to keep up with regulatory developments.