Second training course on laboratory biosafety & biosecurity aspects in relation to Genetically Modified Vectors (GMV) for disease control

31 Aug 2009

Source: TDR (see original article)

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Introduction

Vector-borne diseases occurring in more than 100 countries and affecting about half of the world's population are emerging and resurging. Consequently, they result in high burden of disease. This worsening situation reflecting an inadequate impact of control measures is due to various factors including poor implementation of interventions, limited resources, and development of resistance to insecticides. However, it is generally recognized that effective prevention strategies can reverse this trend, and vector control is a key component of such strategies aiming at interrupting transmission. In addition, genome sequencing of the main vectors of malaria, dengue, and Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) carries the promise of radically improved vector control methods but this new approach will require careful and coordinated development, corroboration, and field evaluation.

TDR has participated for the past ten years with other organizations, in facilitating the development of genetically modified malaria and dengue vectors for interrupting pathogen transmission. This activity is actually mainly supported through the Gates Foundation Grand Challenges for Global Health projects on vector control. Therefore, TDR new strategy is focusing on the requirements to be addressed for potential field deployment of the genetic control methods. Most importantly, these include ensuring the new methods are efficacious and particularly safe for humans and the environment. In order to address this key aspect, TDR new strategy will help building capacity in Disease Endemic Countries (DECs) to prepare them to acquire the knowledge and experience necessary for the application of biosafety and biosecurity regulatory principles and practices. More specifically, it will strengthen their capabilities for effective and timely assessment and management of the potential risks for humans and the environment of the use of genetically-modified vectors(GMV) in view of the implementation of effective and safe genetic control tools for interrupting pathogen transmission. For this purpose, TDR has funded a project for developing best practice guidance for deployment of genetic control methods in disease endemic countries. In addition, TDR has also funded three regional centres in Africa, Asia and Latin America for training in biosafety for human health and the environment in relation to the potential use of GM vectors. Furthermore, TDR has funded the course, object of this call, to focus mainly on laboratory biosafety and biosecurity and complementing the three Regional biosafety training courses.

Objectives of the course

The course aims at training the potential trainers in laboratory biosafety and biosecurity will run in theoretical and practical aspects for five days with the following specific objectives:

Highlighting the importance of implementation of biosafety and biosecurity standards to protect personnel and environment through good practices as well as safeguarding the GMVs
Providing proper information to laboratory management and personnel on the principles and practices of laboratory biosafety and biosecurity guidelines.
Stressing the need for institutions and laboratories in Disease endemic countries to implement effective biosafety and biosecurity principles and practices.

Course content

Biosafety:

Introduction. Principles of Laboratory Biosafety
Hazards and risks associated with handling of GMVs
Laboratory Biosafety Protocols
Containment Levels: Facility Design and Work Practices
Laboratory Animal facility
Biological Safety Cabinets
Accidents in handling GMVs/ Reporting of Accidents
Sterilization and Disinfection in the Laboratory
Risk assessment
Safe Handling of Laboratory Equipment and Materials
Personal Protective equipment PPE
Waste Disposal
Transport and Transfer of GMVs

Biosecurity:

Introduction
Laboratory Biosafety VS Laboratory Biosecurity
Principles of Laboratory Biosecurity
Components of a biosecurity programme:

Risk assessment
Physical security
Personnel management
Accountability of GMVs
Biosecurity issues in transfer of GMVs
Information security
Management of biosecurity activities

Course language: English

Eligibility criteria

Decision makers, laboratory managers and researchers working or having the back ground knowledge on vector research and/or control from vector-borne disease endemic countries are mainly expected to participate in this course.

Selection criteria

Good background knowledge of vector biology and molecular entomology
Demonstrated experience in laboratory research on disease vectors
Basic knowledge and experience in laboratory biosafety and biosecurity
Involvement in development and implementation of laboratory based research projects
Ability to apply the training skill in home institution
Fluency in English
Availability for the entire duration of the course

Application procedure

All applications must be submitted using the application form (MS Word format)

The completed application form, with a letter of recommendation from their institution should be sent electronically to:

E-mail: mohammadia@who.int

Application deadline: 1 October 2009

Successful applicants will be notified by 15 October 2009
Course dates: 23-27 November, 2009
Course Venue: Centre for Research in Medical Entomology, Chinna Chokkikulam (ICMR) 4-Sarojini Street, Chinna Chokkikulam,
Madurai – 625002, TN, India.

Course Coordinator

Dr. Ali A. Mohammadi, DVM, MSc, PhD

Scientist, Biosafety

Health Security and Environment

World Health Organization

20 Avenue Appia

CH-1211, Geneva, Switzerland

Tel: + 41 22 791 1804

Fax: + 41 22 791 4666

E-mail: mohammadia@who.int