[xyzzy123]

In this case they are straight-forwardly reporting on an investigation by the Times, so trashing the source doesn't seem relevant or necessary.

[anthk]

It has no sense to use virii as weapons. Everyone could be infected, your own army too. Even with a vaccine, the outcome can change with unexpected ways.

[xyzzy123]

I happen to agree, but that doesn't stop billions being spent on biodefense / biowarfare.

The lines can get a bit blurry because a lot of that type of research is "dual use".