Microbiology Reference Group
This Group provides testing support to public and private animal and human healthcare groups in the areas of bacteriology, mycology and mycobacteriology. Specimens obtained from tissue, food, water, soil are tested as part of routine and emergency investigations involving emerging infectious disease, contaminated food and water supplies, autopsy and suspicious death, or illegal use of biological agents. A combination of advanced, innovative, and conventional methods are used to identify and serotype unusual aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, yeast, molds or fungal elements isolated from clinical specimens. Molecular and DNA fingerprinting techniques are routinely used to rapidly identify microorganisms and assist in identifying possible sources of disease. Antibiotic resistance patterns are determined to confirm treatment protocols and detect emerging resistant microorganisms. Reference Microbiology works closely with the Office of TB Control and area labs to confirm the causative agent for each new tuberculosis case and provide 1st and 2nd line drug sensitivity testing for these cases. The Reference Microbiology Group maintains a "state-of-the-art" laboratory and highly trained staff that are capable of rapidly responding to threats of terrorism.
Links:
TB Control
EPI/STD/Terrorism
Emerging Infectious Diseases
Virginia Reportable Disease List
