• The WHO's updated laboratory biosecurity guidance strengthens measures to manage biological risks in health systems.

• The key updates include enhanced cybersecurity for patient records, managing risks from new technologies like genetic modification and AI, and maintaining safety during emergencies.

• Laboratories are crucial in patient diagnosis, disease surveillance, and R&D for treatments and vaccines.

• The guidance helps countries establish robust frameworks for handling high-risk pathogens, especially those with fewer regulations.

• It emphasizes strong governance through Institutional Biosafety Committees and national oversight.

• Developed with input from WHO collaborating centers and advisory groups, this guidance promotes a risk-based approach to mitigate the misuse and accidental release of biological materials, ensuring safe and continuous biomedical research.

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