Strengthening mobile diagnostic resilience in emergencies in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region
Rana Abu Salbi1, Jessica Yazbek1, Deesse Tabet1
1Human Link, Baabda, Lebanon.
Purpose:
The Eastern Mediterranean Region faces persistent challenges in laboratory capacity, exacerbated by conflicts, natural disasters, and recurrent public health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed these deficiencies, underscoring the urgent need for scalable and rapid diagnostic solutions. Rapid Response Mobile Laboratories (RRMLs), self-contained mobile diagnostic units that can be rapidly deployed to affected areas, offer flexible and efficient tools to address diagnostic and logistical gaps in fragile healthcare systems.
Methods:
We used document review and deliberative expert consultation, as this paper draws on the work of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network (GOARN) Strategic Group for Diagnostic Surge Capacity, and insights from the WHO-convened expert meeting in Cairo (October 2024). Regional needs and priorities were reviewed to outline RRML deployment in conflict-affected and resource-limited countries of the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR).
Results:
Key priorities identified include developing standard operating procedures for biosafety, logistics, and data management; establishing a regional funding mechanism to ensure sustainability and fostering inter-country agreements for rapid deployment and resource sharing. The twinning strategy was emphasized as a pivotal approach for knowledge transfer and strengthening local capacity.
Conclusion:
A regional mobile laboratory network tailored to local needs is essential to build diagnostic resilience. Standardized training, simulation drills, and integrated data-sharing frameworks will optimize the efficiency of RRMLs. Mobilizing resources and expertise for these laboratories will enhance outbreak preparedness and support public health responses in high-risk zones.
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