Argentina has launched the first Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) laboratory in Latin America at the Malbrán Institute. This is a unique facility in the region, comparable only to the one in the United States. The inauguration took place at the Operational Unit for the Biological Containment Center.
Malbrán is recognized as an international leader in bacteriology, diagnostics, and biosafety. With this laboratory, the country strengthens its regional scientific leadership and its capacity to respond to health emergencies. The event was attended by authorities and health specialists.
Malbrán's director, Claudia Perandones, highlighted the technical preparation of the local teams. The new facility places Argentina at the scientific forefront in biological safety. It also joins the international network of maximum containment.
Health management and political leadership at the inauguration
The Minister of Health, Mario Lugones, led the technical and logistical work that made it possible to complete the BSL-4 project. His management ensured the training of Argentine teams in cooperation with U.S. specialists through Health Security Partners and the U.S. Department of State.
The project was consolidated thanks to coordination between the health ministry and international organizations. Lugones was present at the inauguration accompanied by the national chief of staff, Guillermo Francos. Both emphasized that the laboratory will allow Argentina to share protocols and standards with global high-security centers.
