BSL-3 lab in Kozhikode set to boost Nipah virus detection

A biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) virology laboratory at the Government Medical College in Kozhikode is expected to be commissioned soon. | Photo credit: K. Ragesh

The new Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory at the Government Medical College Hospital (MCH), Kozhikode is nearing completion, with full operations expected soon.

The highly contained facility, set up with the support of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is expected to boost the state’s diagnostic self-sufficiency and facilitate early detection of high-consequence pathogens like the Nipah virus.

A professor in the Department of Microbiology at MCH told The Hindu on Friday (June 12, 2026) that the device is in the final stages of development. The work progressed smoothly, only the installation of the two-door autoclave remained. “Once the facility is in place, the lab is expected to be operational, potentially within a few months,” he said.

Currently, testing and handling of highly infectious pathogens is performed in the hospital’s BSL-2 laboratory. However, the commissioning of a BSL-3 laboratory, equipped with stricter biosafety measures, is expected to enhance diagnostic capabilities and facilitate early detection of pathogens. “The BSL-3 laboratory will also advance research by enabling the safe study of infectious agents that can spread through the air,” he added.

The state-of-the-art project is valued at ₹8 crore. In addition to a two-door autoclave used to sterilize laboratory waste and equipment before leaving containment, the facility is equipped with specialized air handling and filtration systems, along with other biosecurity infrastructure designed to prevent the escape of infectious pathogens.

As per existing ICMR protocols, confirmatory testing for highly infectious pathogens is done at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune. The commissioning of BSL-3 facilities at the Kozhikode hospital will not change this protocol and samples requiring confirmation will continue to be sent to Pune, said a senior microbiologist.

The proposal to upgrade the existing state-run BSL-2 virus research and diagnostic laboratory to a regional-level facility was first mooted after the Nipah outbreak in Kozhikode in 2018. However, the project was delayed due to the COVID-19 lockdown and work finally started in November 2021, the official said.

Published – 12 Jun 2026 21:35 IST