[Networks of National Reference Centers and associated Consiliary Laboratories in Germany]

Since 1995, the Robert Koch-Institute in agreement with the Federal Ministry of Health in Germany has increased the funding of National Reference Centers (NRC) and Consiliary Laboratories (CL) for laboratory-based surveillance of selected infection pathogens and infectious disease syndromes. Their goal is to improve efficient protection from infections and to supplement infectious disease surveillance by monitoring selected pathogens. Currently there are 19 NRC and 48 CL, nominated for a duration of 3 years. In order to enhance the effectiveness and cooperation of the system, ten National Networks were launched in 2009. The aim of these networks is to facilitate exchange on diagnostic methods and prevention concepts and to improve the geographic coverage of the services. Furthermore, the networks provide an opportunity to work on issues beyond single pathogens more productively and efficiently. In addition, the inclusion of external and international specialists should to be included more often in the future. The activities of the networks are evaluated by the commission for infectious disease epidemiology. The commission develops promotion modalities to support collaboration between NRC and CL and to adapt it to more closely meet the requirements at the national and international levels.