Laboratory diagnostics support

During the early phase of the epidemic, ZIG prepared a series of bilateral on-site trainings in partner countries, as well as regional trainings on SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics in cooperation with WHO and the African CDC (Africa-CDC). In parallel, ZIG received requests for material support for diagnostics. With the travel restrictions imposed in March 2020, and in close collaboration with the Africa-CDC and WHO AFRO, the planned trainings were eventually transformed into web-based trainings available in 4 languages (https://zenodo.org/record/4058349). As part of these trainings, ZIG facilitated more than 20 deliveries of diagnostic materials to participants of the online trainings. The first deliveries were sent to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mali and Zimbabwe on 15 April. As part of the international cooperation, Africa-CDC selected the participating countries and facilitated the contact.

In total, ZIG has received nearly 100 requests from almost 50 countries for public health laboratory support since January 2020. Requests have included training on SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics, including typing of emerging variants, diagnostic materials and laboratory equipment. In this context, ZIG facilitated more than 50 shipments of diagnostic materials and consumables, as well as two shipments of laboratory equipment to bilateral partner laboratories.

Virtual conferences to share experiences and methods

Field missions, which could not take place or were very limited due to travel restrictions caused by the pandemic, were replaced by virtual exchanges with over 60 countries on technical issues. In spring 2020, this exchange was particularly intensive; at least five virtual exchange meetings took place per week at that time, including with foreign embassies in Germany, ministries of health and national health institutions. Together with numerous public health experts from all over the world, ZIG has carried out many other activities on the COVID-19 exchange of experience.

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