NIH Scientists Charged With Smuggling Deactivated Mpox Virus Into U.S.

Federal prosecutors have charged a senior National Institutes of Health (NIH) scientist and a research fellow with smuggling vials of deactivated mpox virus into the United States from Africa and providing false statements to authorities regarding the transport. The charges follow an investigation into the unauthorized importation of biological materials, which the defendants allegedly brought into the country without adhering to required federal protocols.

The investigation centers on the defendants’ actions during their travel from Africa, where they reportedly secured the deactivated virus samples. According to the charges, the individuals failed to declare the biological materials to customs officials upon their arrival in the United States. Furthermore, investigators allege that the scientists provided inaccurate information to federal authorities when questioned about the contents of their luggage. The NIH has not yet released a statement regarding the employment status of the two individuals, and the case remains under review by the Department of Justice.

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Date: June 3, 2026

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GOAI