KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health announced that the Polio Reference Laboratory, part of the Public Health Department, has achieved a 100 percent efficiency rating in molecular PCR tests for 2024, as part of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) proficiency testing program.

Dr Sarah Al-Qabandi, Head of the Public Health Laboratories Department, stated that this achievement underscores Kuwait’s ongoing participation in global efforts to combat polio and reflects the country’s commitment to maintaining high standards in public health. She noted that the rating is an indication of the laboratory’s adherence to international diagnostic standards, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of test results in the fight against polio. Dr Al-Qabandi added that this result highlights the laboratory’s ability to stay current with scientific developments and apply them effectively, supporting global efforts to eradicate polio.

She also acknowledged the support from Health Minister Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi and Undersecretary Dr Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi in facilitating the necessary resources to maintain high standards in the laboratory. This support, she noted, is part of Kuwait’s broader commitment to achieving global health goals.

The Polio Reference Laboratory plays a key role in confirming polio cases and monitoring the spread of the virus through environmental and human samples. It also provides valuable data on virus strains, which inform vaccination and eradication strategies at the global level. Dr Al-Qabandi concluded by thanking all those involved in the laboratory and the Public Health Department for their continued efforts to support the global fight against polio. — KUNA