Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority’s (ADAFSA) laboratories are now part of the World Health Organization (WHO) Coronavirus Network of Reference Laboratories.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO developed the Global Network of Reference Laboratories (CoViNet).
The goal of the network is to improve global capacity for early and accurate detection, surveillance, and genetic and phenotypic characterization of coronaviruses, such as MERS-CoV (the virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome) and SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), as well as other emerging coronaviruses of public health importance.
Asmaa Abdi Mohamed, Director of Biosecurity Affairs at ADAFSA, stated that, “The participation of ADAFSA laboratories in CoViNet supports the monitoring of the evolution of coronaviruses at the international level and helps to increase preparedness and precautionary measures. It also supports the process of continuous risk assessment to study the evolution of coronaviruses, which enhances surveillance and proactive capabilities for early detection of any new pandemic. In addition, it reinforces the UAE’s efforts to combat communicable, zoonotic and emerging diseases and their prevention, and to prevent, contain and eradicate endemic and transboundary biosecurity threats and risks.
“Membership in the network provides an opportunity to collaborate with institutions and experts from around the world to conduct research and contribute to innovation in the field of coronavirology. This confirms the UAE’s global position in the field of scientific research related to virology,” Mohamed added.
ADAFSA laboratories are distinguished by their status as a reference center recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) in the field of camel diseases and as a collaborating reference center in quality management. The centers aim to place the UAE in a prominent position globally and support its role in promoting animal health and biosecurity at local, regional and international levels.