Project News

The lack of BSL-3 laboratory facility prevents Pasteur Institute Ho Chi Minh (PIHCMC) from having the capacity of conductingresearch, analysis and diagnosis to detect BSL-3 related hazardous pathogens such as highly pathogenic avian Influenza. On the other hand National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology (NIHE) has not only four BSL-3 laboratories (operated since 2008) supported by Grant-in- aid but also one mobile BSL-3 laboratory transferred from Japanese side in2006.

In May 2012, the Project received request from Ministry of Health on transfer of the mobile BSL-3 laboratory to PIHCMC. After completion of necessary official procedures, transfer of the mobile BSL-3 laboratory was approved by JICA and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, Japanese Government. All the preparative work for transfer was implemented from February 18th (season known as "Tet" in Vietnam) to March 2nd, including dismantling, packaging and transporting. After arrival in Ho Chi Minh City, two short-term experts – Dr. Shinohara (Division of Biosafety, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Japan) and Mr. Miki (SUGA Company) supported and instructed on operation and initial check on pre-Operation of mobile BSL-3 laboratory. Since mobile BSL-3laboratory starts operating, Not only more attention on maintenance management and fine tuning of facility but also training courses on biosafety and SOPs of using mobile BSL-3 laboratory are required for regular operation of mobile BSL-3 laboratory. Dr. Shinohara and Mr. Miki demonstrated basic concept and procedures on biosafety for engineers and researchers in PIHCMC with special reference to the mobile BSL-3 laboratory. In March 18th, the reception ceremony of the mobile laboratory BSL-3 was held with the presence of related parties. PIHCMC has been eager to install BSL-3 facility in the southern Vietnam, and now is expected to play a pivotal role in research and diagnosis of possible hazardous pathogens for the southern area of Vietnam in the future.

Before transfer

Dismantlation

Discussion with PIHCMC's management board (from right: Vice Director Dr. Bao Van, Director Dr. Huu, Vice Director Mr. Hai, Dr. PhươngLan

Completion

Visit