Laboratory capacity building

The AMP worked in collaboration with the Mali National Institute for Public Health Research to establish the PCR laboratory and the latter has started to equip the premises before the laboratory is delivered and installed. The reagents and equipment needed for this activity were received in August 2008.

Staff received training in the premises of an AMP/Centre Muraz PCR laboratory in Bobo-Dioulasso (Burkina Faso) as well as at the Mali National Institute for Public Health Research, where the PCR technology will be implemented. One biologist was given initial training June 1-13, 2008, and one technician was trained June 12-July 1, 2008.

The PCR laboratory began operation in November 2008. This was accompanied by additional training for the biologist pharmacist, the engineer and another laboratory technician at the Mali National Institute for Public Health Research premises. Trials on meningitis strains from the previous season were carried out in the new laboratory and standard operating procedures were drawn up.

The laboratory is ready to use PCR systematically in addition to the conventional methods.