Syfy orders 13 episodes of CDC-themed drama series 'Helix'

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NEW YORK, March 8 (UPI) -- Syfy says it is working on "Helix," a new scripted series about a team of scientists from the Centers for Disease Control conducting research in the arctic.

The 13-episode season is to go into production soon and air later this year, said Mark Stern, Syfy's president of original content and co-head of original content for Universal Cable Productions.

The show follows the scientists to a high-tech research facility in the arctic to investigate a possible disease outbreak "only to find themselves pulled into a terrifying life-and-death struggle that holds the key to mankind's salvation or total annihilation," a synopsis said.

"With its well-drawn characters, taut drama and incredible production team, we couldn't be more excited to see this intense thrill-ride of a series come to life," said Stern in a statement Thursday.

No casting has been announced yet.