CARPHA Medical Microbiology Laboratory is Ready to Respond to 2019-nCoV

In the event of a 2019-nCoV outbreak in the Region, the reference
medical microbiology laboratory (CMML) at the Caribbean Public Health
Agency (CARPHA) is ready and fully equipped to test samples of suspected
cases of the virus.      

There are no direct commercial flights to the Caribbean from China,
and travellers to the Region are screened multiple times prior to their
arrival. However, the global situation is changing rapidly and CARPHA is
monitoring to determine if sustained transmission of the disease occurs
outside of China.  

“The Agency is equipped to investigate and manage communicable
diseases.  In the event of the suspicion of an outbreak in the Region,
Member States have specific protocols to follow in their investigation
process which includes sending the samples to CARPHA.  We are prepared
to receive and test samples of suspected cases of the 2019-nCoV with
immediate effect,” states Dr. Joy St. John, CARPHA Executive Director.

The reference laboratory is accredited by the Jamaica National Agency
for Accreditation (JANAAC) to the international standard for medical
laboratories, ISO 15189:2012. Additionally, all laboratory technicians
are certified to handle and transport infectious samples in accordance
with the World Health Organization (WHO) Guidance on Regulations for the
Transport of Infectious Substances which was developed with the
International Air Transport Association (IATA).   

Head of CMML, Dr. Gabriel Gonzalez-Escobar said, “All systems are in
place.” He explained that CARPHA does not accept samples directly from
the public.  “CARPHA will only receive and test samples from the
national referral medical laboratories in Member States.  Results for
all samples tested at the CMML will be sent electronically to the
national referral medical laboratories, who will then disseminate to the
health care provider.” He further stated that test results for the
2019-nCoV should be provided within 48 hours, but turnaround time is
subject to receipt of a sample in a timely manner.      

Good hygiene practices are important for the prevention of the spread
of the novel Coronavirus.  While the risk of 2019-nCoV to the Region is
currently low, CARPHA urges residents and visitors alike to practice
basic protective measures against the new coronavirus.  The Agency
recommends that persons maintain basic hand and respiratory hygiene, and
avoid close contact, when possible, with anyone showing symptoms of
respiratory illness such as coughing and sneezing.   In addition:

• Frequently clean hands using soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub if your hands are not visibly dirty.  
• When coughing and sneezing cover mouth and nose with flexed elbow or tissue.  Throw tissue away immediately and wash hands;
• Avoid close contact with anyone who has fever and cough;
• If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing seek medical care
  early, and share previous travel history with your health care
  provider;

For further information about the 2019-nCoV, visit the CARPHA website at www.carpha.org