Mobile Laboratories Rolling Out PCR Tests Across the MENA Region

• Mobile labs can conduct up to 7,500 tests per day with a turnaround time of just 3.5 hours.

• The latest innovations and new technology relating to mobile laboratories to be revealed at Medlab Middle East which is co-located with Arab Health and takes place from 24-27 January 2022 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

• A dedicated COVID-19 Updates conference will gather global experts, to discuss virology, immunology, vaccines, and variants.

The latest technology and innovation in the global fight against COVID-19 and beyond, will be on show at the next edition of Medlab Middle East when it returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 24-27 January 2022 with mobile molecular testing and diagnosis stations, or ‘laboratories on wheels’, taking centre stage.

Medlab Middle East

Mobile laboratories offer testing and diagnosis on the go, with many having the capacity to conduct upwards of 7,500 tests per day and a turnaround time of just 3.5 hours. The tests cover a variety of pathogens and offer a streamlined, automated workflow, from pre-extraction to data analysis.

Tom Coleman, Exhibition Director for Informa Markets, said, “Mobile labs offers the most innovative mobile molecule diagnostic, testing and laboratory services and have had a major impact on the support they have been able to provide the healthcare community in combating COVID-19 infections.”

Typically, a mobile lab features an equipment room and an extraction room and laboratory. Technology within the station allows for automated testing with little supervision while incorporating other equipment such as RT-PCR reagents, consumables, and technical support for diagnostic testing.

The other benefit mobile laboratories offer is they can be transported via ship or lorry to almost any place in the world and are fully operational within days of arrival. They can then conduct mass testing in schools, airports, or communities impacted by the pandemic.

Amartya Bose, Industry Analyst, Healthcare and Lifesciences Practice, Frost & Sullivan, said, "The state-of-the-art boxed field laboratories, trained scientists and technicians deployed for epidemic infectious disease, clinical chemistry and hematology services incorporates a network of regional mobile laboratories that allows de-centralized response. Mobile labs set a new horizon of PCR lab-setting."

“Leveraging automated workflows, multiplex real-time PCR platforms demonstrates to augment community-based testing. As alternate care sites gain importance, the modular concepts of mobile lab inventory, equipment and operations powered by smart lab solutions will create sustainable laboratories of the future."

One company showcasing their latest innovative products concerning COVID-19 testing during the event is South Korean biotechnology company, Seegene. The company recently partnered with Abu Dhabi’s G42 Healthcare to offer mobile laboratory stations across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

“As a result of COVID-19, we have seen the laboratory industry fast track a range of new cutting-edge technologies that have had a remarkable impact in the fight against the pandemic. Seegene’s Mobile Station is a prime example of accelerating transformation within the laboratory market, something we will be showcasing during Medlab Middle East in January,” added Coleman.

In addition to highlighting the latest technology in the fight against COVID-19, the event will also see the return of the Medlab Middle East Congress COVID-19 Updates track. A number of global experts from USA, Europe and GCC will highlight further developments on COVID-19 vaccines and updates on the management of COVID-19 variants.

As part of Informa's commitment to providing the highest hygiene and safety levels, the event will again take place under the protocols introduced via the company’s Informa AllSecure health and safety mandate. The enhanced measures include 35 guidelines covering all aspects of cleaning and hygiene, social distancing measures, and the use of PPE, screening, and a track and trace in conjunction with local authorities.

For more information, please visit www.medlabme.com.