Plans for a high-security laboratory at Nagasaki University, designed to study deadly viruses, have ignited concerns among Japanese citizens, with some calling it a risk “worse than dropping an atomic bomb.” Despite official reassurances about stringent safety measures, public skepticism remains high, particularly in light of past global health crises.
The mere mention of a research facility handling dangerous pathogens such as Ebola, Marburg, and Lassa fever immediately brings back memories of the COVID-19 pandemic. Speculation continues to swirl about its origins, with theories suggesting a possible leak from the Wuhan Institute of Virology in China. Although such laboratories are vital in the fight against infectious diseases, the fear of a similar mishap occurring in Japan has left many uneasy.
The Japanese government argues that having a biosafety level-4 (BSL-4) lab is crucial for advancing domestic research and reducing dependence on foreign facilities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan faced significant limitations in scientific contributions due to a lack of high-security laboratories. Currently, the only BSL-4 facility in the country is housed at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Tokyo. However, its attempts to import lethal viruses for research in 2018 met with fierce public opposition.
Now, after a 15-year delay, Nagasaki University’s BSL-4 lab has been established. While the facility is still in a trial phase with no live pathogens in use, concerns over potential leaks have already gripped the local population. Experts claim that the viruses intended for study primarily spread through direct human contact and would not pose a widespread airborne threat. Officials have emphasized that all air leaving the facility will be filtered, and strict containment protocols will be in place.
However, such assurances do little to ease public anxieties, especially in a country still haunted by the 2011 Fukushima disaster. Many recall how successive governments had dismissed the possibility of a nuclear meltdown, only for the catastrophe to unfold in a way they had deemed “inconceivable.” The lingering distrust in official statements fuels resistance to the new laboratory.
The opposition extends beyond concerned citizens, with artists also joining the debate. Manga artist Mayumi Kurata questioned the government’s ability to prevent a potential Wuhan-like incident and urged leaders to consider public concerns.
Online forums are filled with criticism, with some arguing that if the lab were truly safe, it should be built next to the Prime Minister’s residence or Tokyo Mayor’s house instead.
Despite the backlash, the government and research institutions continue their efforts to justify the facility’s existence, stressing the importance of preparedness against future pandemics.
However, with deep-seated skepticism and memories of past disasters still fresh, winning public trust remains a challenge.
