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Virology and Serology Service

Diagnosis and surveillance of infectious diseases

The virology and serology service is dedicated to the diagnosis, follow-up and epidemiological monitoring of infectious viral diseases by serological techniques, cell cultures and molecular biology in level 2 and 3 biosafety laboratories (BSL2 – BSL3).

 As part of the Microbiology Department, the serology-virology service interacts with epidemiology and microbial genomics service on one hand, and bacteriology, mycology, parasitology service on the other hand. This collaboration focuses on the use of scientific data and the development of new diagnostic methods to identify and map circulating pathogens in order to develop health policy to protect citizens from the risks of bacterial and viral infections.

A National Reference Laboratory

Because of its expertise, WHO1 recognises the virology and serology unit as a National Reference Laboratory for influenza. In this capacity, the virology unit together with the epidemiology and microbial genomics service collaborate with volunteer physicians, the Health Inspection of Luxembourg, WHO and ECDC2. Using high-throughput sequencing technics, it aims to monitor the emergence of viral mutations and the epidemiology of flu during winter season.

LNS – Influenza surveillance

1 WHO, the World Health Organization, has as its purpose the improvement of future prospects and the future health of all the people of the world. Through its offices in more than 150 countries, the staff of WHO works with governments and other partners to achieve for all nations the highest possible level of health.

2 The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) is devoted to identifying, evaluating and disseminating information on current and emerging threats presented by infectious diseases in order thus to increase protection against infectious diseases in Europe.

the team