ANSES assessment of laboratory needs and capacities. Improving surveillance and early detection of Foot-and-mouth And Similar Transboundary (FAST) animal diseases in the South-East European Neighbourhood (SEEN) countries / ANSES assessment of laboratory needs and capacities. Virtual Workshop. 27-30 April 2020.

1. Souheyla Benfrid,
EU Reference Laboratory for FMD
Elaboration of a tool for the assessment
of laboratory needs and capacities
on FMD and other TADs

2. Objectives of the study
 Support the development of a strong animal disease surveillance system in
the region
 Help laboratories identify gaps and priorities in their organisation
 Identify actions required to update and improve the functionality of individual
laboratories
 Provide objectives and indicators to help monitor progress over time
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3. Questionnaire design
Adaptation of the FAO “laboratory mapping tool”
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4. Questionnaire design
Adaptation of the FAO “laboratory mapping tool”
 Pulled out questions not related to FAST diseases (bacteriology…)
 Pulled out questions not applicable to the level of development present
in the SEEN countries
 Focus on the diagnostic capabilities (virology, serology, molecular biology)
 Added specific questions tailored for FMD and TADs (biosecurity…)

5. Questionnaire design
Online survey : Sphinx tool
 Dynamic
 User friendly
 Accessible through various eletronic
devices
 Qualitative and quantitative approach
 Multiple-choice and open-ended when
relevant
 Rapid analysis – rapid follow-up
 Immediate feedback

6. Questionnaire design
Online survey : Sphinx tool
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7. Example of the REMESA study
Feedback and follow-up
 All countries sollicited participated in the study
 5 out of 8 agreed that the tool provided an excellent general overview of their laboratory
expertise.
 3 reported a neutral opinion on the matter.
 All participants judged the questions relevant in choice of questions and level of details.
 Participants highlighted that the questionnaire helped identify areas of improvement for
themselves.
 Follow-up was ensured for each laboratory via e-mails and phone interviews
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8. Results
Reagent availability

9. Results
Staff skills in diagnostic methods:
Assessment of training needs

10. Results
Identification of strengths
 Routine expertise in virology, serology and molecular biology
 ELISA used predominantly in diagnostics
 Routine use of q-PCR technology
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11. Results
Needs and priorities identified
 Reagent procurement
 Training and availability of skilled personnel
 Equipment maintenance
 Quality management practices
 Biosafety/Biosecurity
 International shipment of samples
 Reinforcement of national and regional networks
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12. Questions?
Thank you for your attention

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