Regional laboratory experts in Amman, Jordan learn how to diagnose Zika virus (Photo: WHO, 2017)
The Regional Emerging and Dangerous Pathogens Laboratory Network (EDPLN) was established in August 2017, to enhance capacities of laboratories in the Region to detect and diagnose outbreaks of emerging and dangerous pathogens (EDPs). The list of dangerous and high threat pathogens that the EDPLN covers include new and emerging ones, as well as existing pathogens causing repeated outbreaks in the Region such as avian influenza, cholera, dengue, and yellow fever.
The network includes both private and public, human and animal diagnostic health laboratories. To provide advanced diagnostic services, these laboratories are selected for their biosafety levels, and capacity for accurate detection and diagnosis.
The EDPLN has five major objectives:
Improve rapid diagnosis, identification and characterization of viral, bacterial and parasitical EDP outbreaks;
Improve response times to outbreaks;
Further the regional research and development agenda including on diagnostics, vaccine and therapeutics;
Improve biosafety and biosecurity practices;
Facilitate knowledge transfer and information sharing.
Location of laboratories of the EDPLN
