What the Charges Allege and What Scientists DisputeThe complaint states the scientists lacked the appropriate documents. Federal code requires researchers to register and certify inactivated viruses, and carrying an inactivated virus on a commercial flight is neither illegal nor unusual when that paperwork is in order. Several scientists told KFF Health News that the specimens were most likely intended for developing mpox diagnostic tests. A vial of inactivated virus and a vial of live virus look identical. Is it illegal to carry an inactivated virus on a plane?