September 17, 2007
For Immediate Release

Information
	National Microbiology Lab Mobile Laboratory Backgrounder
[ to enlarge click here]

News Release

Canada deploys mobile laboratory to assist in Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo

(WINNIPEG, MB) - Scientists from the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) are travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) today to provide assistance in that country's outbreak of Ebola virus. The virus, a highly contagious type of haemorrhagic fever, is thought to have infected 372 people in the DRC and 166 people have died.

“Contributing to global public health is important,” said Health Minister Tony Clement. “Infectious diseases do not respect borders, so it's crucial that we work together to limit their spread and impact on the global community.”

At the request of the World Health Organization's (WHO) Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network, PHAC officials from the National Microbiology Lab in Winnipeg will be setting up a mobile laboratory in the affected region to provide rapid diagnostic support. PHAC scientists will be conducting rapid diagnosis to differentiate between illnesses with similar symptoms. This will ensure that those infected with Ebola receive treatment for their symptoms and are isolated to reduce the risk of transmission.

“At the Public Health Agency of Canada, we have a responsibility to share our experience and expertise with our international partners,” said Dr. David Butler-Jones, Chief Public Health Officer. “In the past, our emergency response teams have been mobilized around the world to help control the spread of infectious diseases. Our teams have extensive field experience providing assistance to the most remote areas of the world.”

PHAC's mobile labs have previously been deployed to Angola, Vietnam and China to respond to public health emergencies including Marburg fever, avian influenza and SARS. PHAC has two complete mobile labs available for deployment at all times, and all of the items required for the lab are designed to be easily and safely transported.

The PHAC scientists travelling to the DRC are leading the way on research into viral haemorrhagic fevers. This team is developing an Ebola vaccine that is very promising for use not only as a preventative measure, but also as treatment after infection. This development could be useful in controlling and treating future outbreaks of Ebola.

- 30 -

Media Inquiries:
Elaine Krawchenko
Public Health Agency of Canada
(204) 789-5046