Mahmoud M, Badra R, Kandeil A, El‐Shesheny R, Abdallah J, Ali MA, Kayali G. Role of research Laboratories in pandemic and epidemic response in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: Experiences from COVID-19, avian influenza, and MERS-CoV.
Influenza Other Respir Viruses 2024;
18:e13257. [PMID:
38342948 PMCID:
PMC10859308 DOI:
10.1111/irv.13257]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024] Open
Abstract
We share the experience of research laboratories in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) that contributed to preparedness and response to highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), Middle-East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Research groups in the region were pivotal in identifying, characterizing the pathogens and describing their evolution, distribution, transmission routes, and the immunological profile of exposed populations. They demonstrated the capacity to develop and test antivirals and potential vaccines. The EMR experience is a model of how national systems can work with researchers to improve regional preparedness and response to future epidemics and pandemics.
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