activities of Reference Laboratories & Collaborating Centres

摘要

This laboratory also serves as France's National Reference Laboratory for foot and mouth disease (FMD). It is particularly involved in the emergency diagnosis of suspicious cases. As well as diagnosing the disease, the laboratory undertakes expert assessments and carries out scientific and epidemiological surveillance. In addition, it is proficient in modelling and biostatistics as they apply to FMD. It provides technical and scientific support for the control of this disease at national and international level and engages in research aimed at improving detection and virus characterisation tools, and, at a basic science level, at understanding the mechanisms of viral persistence. The laboratory's activities are subject to quality assurance and it is accredited under ISO/CEI 17025 by the French standards association, Cofrac.