The hazmat suit has been shortlisted for the “Grand Challenge” competition to fight Ebola, organized by the US Agency for International Development. With the collaboration of the global health non-profit organization Jhpiego and the GE Foundation, the prototype may soon see mass production.

GE Foundation Chief Medical Officer David Barash outlined the broader impact a better designed suit can bring, beyond the Ebola outbreak. “It fits into our strategy in terms of building things that are long lasting,” says Barash. “I don’t see why this suit could not be used for an influenza outbreak or other outbreaks. It’s going to protect people from any virus or communicable disease.”

When Quartz asked Andrews what other tricks from the wedding trade she’s bringing into the final design, she smiles widely, “Actually, it’s the other way around. I think I’m going to try breakaway zippers in my wedding gowns from now on!”

Correction (Feb. 19): The International Rescue Committee is not involved with the development of the suit, as previously reported.  The IRC shared its space at the Empire Hotel to showcase the Ebola suit at the request of GE Foundation.

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