What type of microorganisms is a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory designated to work with?

A Biosafety Level 2 laboratory is designed to work with microorganisms that are associated with diseases that can pose a moderate risk to human health, particularly for individuals who may have compromised immunity. These microorganisms are typically associated with human disease but also have available medical interventions, such as vaccines or treatments.

Option D specifies that these microorganisms are associated with rarely serious human diseases, which is consistent with the characteristics of Level 2 organisms. In a Level 2 setting, practices are implemented to protect laboratory personnel and the environment, but the work involves organisms for which there is an established protocol for handling and treatment, thus managing the risks effectively. This includes potential pathogens that can cause disease but are generally manageable with appropriate medical interventions.

Working with such organisms still demands a higher degree of safety and caution than a lower biosafety level, as there is potential for pathogenicity and exposure. Therefore, the classification aligns with the principles of a Biosafety Level 2 laboratory, where the risk is recognized but can be controlled through well-defined safety practices.