Lab 257: The Disturbing Story of the Government's Secret Germ Laboratory

Description

When the author uses the word "disturbing" in the title of this book, Lab 257's story truly falls nowhere near short of "disturbing". The world of microbiology is fascinating, and I'm not surprised that the Untied States was so eager to build a germ laboratory. With other countries already more advanced in their knowledge of some of the most dangerous microbes "out there", the United States felt that they needed to be prepared for any harmful incentives. There was some circumstantial evidence that indicated the possibility of Lab 257 existing primarily for biological warfare, but no one would admit it. I wouldn't put it pass our government to give up an opportunity to posses and be armed with the deadliest biological weapon available. The most troubling part of this investigation was the lack of safety precautions and procedures and the individuals and communities that suffered because of this. Whether is was unintentional or intentional, I had a feeling that they just did not care, and that is unfortunate. I am all for further understanding diseases and infections, but when our own people start to suffer, we need to step back and start to make some serious changes. Overall, I found this book insightful and eerie.