IDEA-ALL
Identification of Emerging Agents Alliance
Context
In Sri Lanka, infectious diseases caused by viruses are widespread and are often diagnosed solely through medical examination. Due to insufficient access, modern laboratory diagnostic methods are used only to a limited extent in this region. As a result, numerous diseases either remain undetected or are not detected in time. New or rare viral diseases, especially those that are transmitted from animals to humans (zoonotic diseases), are particularly problematic. This is where the IDEA-ALL project comes in, to improve the care situation for patients. The aim is to further develop laboratory diagnostics for infectious diseases in Sri Lanka, enabling faster and more targeted detection of diseases in the country. To this end, IDEA-ALL introduces innovative methods in local laboratories. In particular, qualified specialists will share their expertise as part of the “train-the-trainer” approach. The project also aims to expand the training centre at the University of Colombo to provide targeted training for new employees and students. Supplementary studies on wild animals aim to identify novel pathogens at an early stage. The project builds upon the results of the predecessor project, “IDEAnet”, which has already equipped laboratories with modern diagnostics and trained medical staff. The Robert Koch Institute in Germany coordinates the activities n in cooperation with a variety of partner organisations in Sri Lanka, including the University of Colombo.
Objective
Improved molecular diagnostics for infectious diseases in Sri Lanka
In Cooperation with
- University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Colombo North Teaching Hospital, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Ministry of Health, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Medical Research Institute, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Ministry of Health Epidemiology, Colombo, Sri Lanka
- WHO Country Office, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Thematic priorities
Facts
Activities
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Research and provision of evidence
IDEA-ALL conducts basic research, screens animal populations for novel viruses and develops new diagnostic methods applicable in the field. It also documents and describes zoonotic viral diseases and develops evidence-based plans for prevention and early detection.
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Networking and cooperation
An essential foundation of the project is its collaboration and cooperation with ministries, embassies, local health authorities, academia, global scientific networks, and stakeholders in the medical device industry.
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Capacity building
The project develops capacity for molecular viral diagnostics through the improvement of laboratory infrastructure, introduction of quality assessment in hospitals, and process optimisation.
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Training and competence development
IDEA-ALL provides training for medical professionals, facilitates the exchange of guest scientists, and organises information events and education for the public health system.
