Manama: Bahrain's National Influenza Centre has achieved international accreditation from the World Health Organisation (WHO), marking a significant milestone that showcases the Ministry of Health's dedication to improving laboratory service quality and enhancing its global presence. The centre, operating under the Public Health Laboratories, has successfully completed the External Quality Assessment (EQA) for the detection of influenza and COVID-19 viruses, maintaining the highest score for the twelfth consecutive year since 2013.
According to Bahrain News Agency, this achievement highlights Bahrain's prominent role in the Eastern Mediterranean Region's acute respiratory infection surveillance network. It also reflects Bahrain's commitment to sharing data with global reference centres, adhering to the highest technical and laboratory standards.
Dr. Samia Ali Bahram, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health, stated that this international recognition demonstrates the proficiency of national teams in accurately detecting and analysing respiratory viruses. It also emphasises Bahrain's health system's readiness to respond promptly to health emergencies and epidemics.