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TED-Ed

What happens if an engineered virus escapes the lab?

1,144,090 Views

1,729 Questions Answered

TEDEd Animation

Let’s Begin…

Since the 1970s, researchers have engineered superbugs. While this research could help us prepare for future outbreaks, the stakes of this work are extremely high: if even one dangerous virus escaped a lab, it could cause a global pandemic. So, what can we do to minimize risk? And is the knowledge gained even worth the risk in the first place? Dig into the ongoing debate over virology research.

Watch the video and finish the Think section to complete the lesson.


About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

Director
Kevin Herrmann, AIM Creative Studios
Narrator
George Zaidan
Storyboard Artist
Kevin Herrmann
Animator
Kevin Herrmann, Daniela Carvalho, André Cunha
AIM Creative Studios Producer
Tiago Ribeiro
Illustrator
Kevin Herrmann
Composer
André Aires
Sound Designer
André Aires
Director of Production
Gerta Xhelo
Producer
Anna Bechtol
Associate Producer
Abdallah Ewis
Editorial Director
Alex Rosenthal
Editorial Producer
Dan Kwartler
Script Editor
George Zaidan
Fact-Checker
Charles Wallace

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