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 occurring outbreaks and unintentional release. The results must be conclusive and stand in court.

The institute harbours three divisions for the reconnaissance and verification of unusual disease outbreaks:

 

Mobile B Reconnaissance and Verification

The team of the Mobile B Reconnaissance & Verification division 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 testing to prove 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.