Muscat: The World Health Organization (WHO) has named the Sultanate of Oman’s Central Public Health Laboratories (CPHL) a ‘WHO Collaborating Centre’ in the field of communicable diseases and emerging infectious diseases.
An announcement was made to this effect on Wednesday in the presence of Dr Ahmed Mohammed Al Saeedi, Minister of Health, officials of the ministry and representatives of the WHO.
The Omani centre is considered the first of its kind in the Middle East and its designation to this position by the WHO adds to the repertory of Omani accomplishments in the health field.
Dr. Ameena Khalfan Al Jardani, Director of the Central Public Health Laboratories Department, said in a statement to Oman News Agency (ONA) and Oman TV that the designation of the Omani centre will serve the Middle East region and that it will have a global role as it operates alongside other internationally approved collaborating centres.
Dr. Ameena pointed out that Oman’s WHO collaborating centre will tackle emerging epidemics and serve as a training hub in building capacities.
The medical laboratories constitute basic pillars of healthcare, epidemiological investigation and disease monitoring.
The centre for the management of new and reemerging diseases in the Sultanate of Oman will provide an opportunity for exchanging expertise. It will enable countries in the region and the world to tap Oman’s experience in the field of public health labs and other regulatory matters.
