loader image

The UAE Guardians

PureLab’s RLID-AD: From National Influenza Center to a WHO-Recognized Entity

Establishment & Global Partnerships: Founded initially as the National Influenza Center in 2017, the current Regional Reference Lab for Infectious Disease (RLID-AD) of PureLab has been integral to national and global influenza surveillance efforts, working closely with World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Key Roles During COVID-19: RLID-AD’s genomic sequencing support was crucial in tracking and analyzing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, which assisted countries with limited resources.

WHO Recognition for Laboratory Excellence: The lab’s pivotal role in enhancing laboratory capacities earned accolades from WHO, acknowledging its significant contributions to the Eastern Mediterranean Region’s health landscape.

Contribution to Abu Dhabi’s Global Recognition: The lab’s efforts were instrumental in Abu Dhabi being recognized as the world’s top pandemic-resilient city for two consecutive years, showcasing the effectiveness of its COVID-19 response.

Commitment to Infectious Disease Preparedness: Endorsed by HE Dr. Farida Al Hosani, the lab’s work highlights its commitment to top-tier health practices and expanding testing capabilities, which is crucial for pandemic preparedness.

Fostering International Health Sector Collaborations: A visit from the Institut Pasteur delegation underscored RLID-AD’s innovative use of technology in laboratory medicine, strengthening ties between the UAE and global health communities.