Diagnostics
In the event of an unusual disease outbreak, it is crucial to identify the source as fast as possible. If a biological origin of the disease outbreak is suspected, an expert team of the Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology is fully operational to investigate the situation. Applying well defined measures, the experts are able to differentiate an intentional release of biological agents (e.g. bioterrorist attack) from natural outbreaks and unintentional release. The results must be conclusive and stand in court.
The institute has three divisions for the reconnaissance and verification of unusual disease outbreaks:
Mobile B Reconnaissance & Verification
The team of Mobile B Reconnaissance & Verification will investigate the disease outbreak on-site. After taking samples the investigating team will quickly diagnose the samples under field conditions and recommend treatment options and appropriate protective measures.
Central Diagnostic Unit
The diagnostic results obtained during mobile B reconnaissance require confirmation by further laboratory testing, e.g. cultural, molecular and biochemical methods. The Central Diagnostics Unit of the institute will apply state-of-the-art technologies to confirm the biological agent. The detailed analysis will support to investigate the point of origin.
The diagnostic service is also available to civilian health care facilities.
The Central Diagnostics Unit is accredited according to DIN EN ISO 15189.
Microbial Genomics & Bioinformatics
In collaboration with the Diagnostics Central Unit, Microbial Genomics & Bioinformatics evaluates genomic and metagenomic data from sampled probes and clinical samples.
The division is accredited according to DIN EN ISO 15189.