T'Puram virology institute launches mobile testing unit to combat epidemics

THE INSTITUTE of Advanced Virology (IAV) in Thiruvananthapuram has come up with an advanced mobile testing unit which could prove to be vital in case of an epidemic outbreak.

- ANURADHA L R @T'Puram

Equipped with advanced tools for sample collection, rapid diagnosis, and transportation of samples under cold chain conditions for further studies, the unit will have an eight-member team of trained professionals. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched the mobile testing unit on Monday.

The mobile unit -- a biosafety level-2 laboratory cabinet that works with moderate-risk infectious agents or toxins -- will have a vital role in outbreak scenarios involving viral infections and other contagious diseases, said IAV director E Sreekumar.