Network Experiences from a Cross-Sector Biosafety Level-3 Laboratory Collaboration: A Swedish Forum for...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Veterinary Medicine
• Food Safety
• Biodefense

Background:

• The Swedish Forum for Biopreparedness Diagnostics (FBD) is a collaborative network of four agencies responsible for laboratory diagnostics of high-consequence pathogens.
• The network addresses animal health, feed safety, food safety, public health, biodefense, and security sectors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To strengthen diagnostic capabilities and capacities at national biosafety level-3 (BSL-3) laboratories in Sweden.
• To improve national biopreparedness in alignment with European Union (EU) and World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations.

Main Methods:

• Fostering collaboration among national agencies responsible for laboratory diagnostics.
• Harmonizing diagnostic methods, equipment, quality assurance, and biosafety practices.
• Conducting joint projects including method development, validation, ring trials, exercises, and audits.

Main Results:

• The FBD network has successfully harmonized diagnostic methods, equipment, quality assurance, and biosafety practices.
• Joint projects have built trust and improved communication among participating agencies.
• Rotating leadership and planning for implementation have fostered commitment and sustained competencies.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative networks are crucial for enhancing biopreparedness and diagnostic capacities.
• Key success factors include joint projects, shared governance, and strategic implementation planning.
• Expansion of the network to Nordic countries aims to broaden collaboration and resource sharing for harmonized European biopreparedness.