Role of labratory in communicable diseases

Health facilities’ laboratories play a major role in diagnosis and treatment of communicable diseases. Also, public health laboratories have a significant role in confirmation of diagnosis and providing essential details particularly in case of epidemics as they have advanced molecular facilities. On the other hand, entomological laboratories are useful tools at the hand of public health specialists dealing with prevention and control of communicable diseases.

This course highlights the importance of laboratory support in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of people at risk to communicable diseases. It covers a collection of relevant samples, sample processing, and links to national and international accredited laboratories. It also provides participants with basic knowledge about entomological surveillance and their use for communicable diseases prevention and control.

1. Explain the role of laboratories in communicable diseases’ prevention and control
2. Identify samples needed and list collection procedures, storage, transport, and reporting
3. Identify the link between facility laboratory and public health laboratory
4. Comprehend the role of medical entomology in communicable diseases’ control
5. Explain the procedures for vector surveillance and reporting of entomological indices
6. Apply safety measures when dealing with sample collection and processing