Targeted detection (viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi), non-targeted detection (disease “x”, One Health perspective) and Biorisk management are fields of expertise covered by our WHO CC and are included in the following activities.

1. Assessments
   Gap analyses and needs assessment for lab preparedness, response and biorisk.  The WHO CC team has extensive experience in developing and applying laboratory preparedness,  response and biorisk assessments, including online assessment tools and on-site assessments in an international context. These tools have been developed to support the assessment of capacities and capabilities of laboratories to perform accurate diagnostics for clinical and public health purposes in a biosafe and biosecure manner. Examples are capacity checklists, the performance of online surveys on rapid response needs in specific emergency situations and online tools to evaluate the level of biosecurity implementation and to assess the dual-use potential of conducted research.
2. Capacity building
   Based on identified needs and guided by IHR requirements. The WHO CC team has extensive experience in laboratory research and the development, coordination and facilitation of international workshops, training courses and twinning partnerships aiming at capacity and capability building towards accurate, safe and secure expert laboratory systems for targeted detection (specific species or genera of bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi) and non-targeted detection (agnostic sequencing, preparation for Disease “X”). The WHO CC team has developed, in close collaboration with WHO, the document “Preparing for emergencies  - A guidance for health laboratories”. This document, currently being finalised, is providing critical considerations for public health laboratories to improve their response to emerging pathogens or disasters that hamper laboratory operations. Furthermore, the WHO CC team has ample experience in coordinating external quality assessments via proficiency panels, including the provision of assistance in case corrective actions are needed. These activities are supported by team members who have extensive experience in laboratory capacity and capability building in low resource settings across the world. 
3. Ad hoc support
   Support in case of urgent requests. At the request of WHO, our WHO CC provides expert advice and technical laboratory support where needed. This may concern both “dry-lab” and “wet-lab” support, both virtual by e-learning or online training and on location.