Famous: CSIRO “batpack” team members Gennifer Barr and Gary Crameri conduct research at the Moolap facility.
By Erin Pearson
WORLD-first Geelong research has landed a starring role in a new Hollywood blockbuster, according to CSIRO.
The fictional disease in Contagion is based on the nipah virus, under investigation at CSIRO’s Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) in Moolap.
The Geelong research and the role of AAHL in a real-world version of Hollywood’s latest disaster flick earn mentions in the movie.
The Geelong facility is researching the immunology of bats to understand how they survive while carrying deadly viruses including nipah.
AAHL director Martyn Jeggo said Contagion was a frighteningly realistic depiction of how fast infectious diseases could spread.
“The risk of an emerging disease pandemic is very real,” he said.
“In recent years AAHL has been at the forefront of the discovery and control of such diseases including SARS, bird flu and Hendra virus.
“As a national facility our research is focused on preparing Australia to respond to an animal disease outbreak, helping ensure a scenario such as Contagion does not happen in real life.”
CSIRO’s Gary Crameri said AAHL was excited about its recognition.
“Although our research has the potential to radically change the risk management of emerging infectious diseases within Australia and worldwide, we never imagined it would appear in a Hollywood blockbuster,” Mr Crameri said.
“AAHL provides a unique resource for Australia and our capacity to work with deadly biosafety level four disease agents is arguably the best in the world.”
