Investigation and response to emerging viral pathogens in Laos

This project builds capacity in Laos to investigate and respond to emerging zoonotic viral diseases and reduce the risk of their use by building and fostering a scientific partnership between Canada and Laos. Project activities include: (1) the development of a detailed work plan budget and concrete deliverables for a joint Canada-Laos laboratory on emerging zoonotic viral pathogens; (2) the development of biosafety standards for laboratory operations and protocols aligned with international standards for safe sample collection processing and shipment; (3) testing logistics of sample collections and shipments from the Lao People's Democratic Republic to Canada; and (4) assessing field and lab equipment and human capacity needs at Institut Pasteur du Laos and partners

The expected outcomes of this project include: (1) reduced risk of viral contamination and potential pandemics originating in Southeast Asia; and (2) improved detection diagnosis and response to emerging viral diseases by the government of the Lao People's Democratic Republic.