Mobile SARS‑CoV‑2 screening facilities for rapid deployment and university-based diagnostic laboratory

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• Biotechnology

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated continuous operation of essential institutions.
• SARS-CoV-2 spread, regardless of symptom presentation, highlighted the need for broad testing strategies.
• Targeted population screening supports safe reopening and sustained operations of businesses and public services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation and operation of mobile SARS-CoV-2 screening facilities.
• To detail the procedures for specimen collection, transport, and analysis (PCR and antibody detection).
• To provide a model for establishing similar testing infrastructures for future pandemic scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of mobile biosafety level (BSL)-2 laboratories near workplaces.
• Utilization of university staff and existing equipment for facility operation and diagnostics.
• Integrated workflow encompassing specimen collection, transport, PCR and antibody testing, and reporting.

Main Results:

• Deployment of mobile testing stations within 4 weeks of the initial lockdown.
• Analysis of approximately 33,000 PCR tests and nearly 7,000 antibody tests over 15 months.
• Successful daily processing of several hundred specimens under challenging pandemic conditions.

Conclusions:

• Mobile screening facilities are effective for large-scale SARS-CoV-2 testing.
• A systematic approach enables efficient specimen handling and analysis in diverse settings.
• The described model offers a blueprint for establishing rapid response testing infrastructure during health crises.