In this paper we describe the Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL) experiences and approach with training and technology transfer of diagnostic tests for major livestock disease in South-East Asia. Examples are given of successful achievements in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Lao PDR. In brief, AAHL follows a 3-step approach. The laboratory diagnostician is trained at AAHL in the test methodology (e.g. TaqMan PCR) for a particular disease-for example foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI)-under ideal conditions and in a quality controlled and quality assured environment. The trainee then takes test reagents and protocol to his/her own laboratory to establish and standardise the test locally. Follow-up is provided by a consolidation and troubleshooting visit by AAHL staff to the overseas laboratory and includes a hands-on workshop on diagnostic techniques to remedy in-situ constraints. Quality control procedures are built into the technology transfer. AAHL organises external quality assurance rounds to monitor the success of the technology transfer and to obtain useful information about potential sources of error. Other important aspects of training are related to biosecurity and biosafety. The close collaboration with South-East Asian counterpart laboratories increases AAHL's awareness of potential new and emerging diseases in the region. Although being directly involved in the development and validation of diagnostic tests for exotic diseases such as FMD, classical swine fever (CSF), HPAI, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and henipavirus, AAHL scientists are confronted with the limitations of a country (Australia) where these diseases do not exist. The collaborative nature of the projects in South-East Asia allows AAHL to use and validate these tests in an environment where the diseases are present. In summary, these activities enhance Australia's emergency disease preparedness and pre-boundary protection, which are the pillars to maintaining and improving its competitive international trade status. In turn, collaborating South-East Asian (SEA) countries strengthen their own diagnostic and disease surveillance capacity that subsequently leads to improved disease control-a win-win situation for all involved.
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