Since the beginning of the epidemic season, 1,479 samples from patients with acute respiratory viral infections have been tested, of which 12% are positive.

The virology laboratory is located on Dzerzhinsky Street. It is here that specialists conduct dozens of studies, identify strains of influenza, acute respiratory viral infections and other infections, and analyze their transmission routes.

— This is a restricted area. Research on various pathogenic microorganisms of the second, third and fourth pathogenicity groups is conducted here. There are two zones. Computers work in the clean zone, documentation is kept and test results are entered. The infectious zone begins behind the door marked with a special sign. This is where specialists work with samples and conduct the necessary tests. Entry is only possible if all the rules are followed, — says Timur Iskakov, head of the laboratory.

The clean and infectious zones are separated by a sanitary checkpoint. The laboratory has an emergency shower that can be used in case of contact with dangerous substances and microorganisms on the skin or mucous membranes. To do this, simply pull the lever.

The laboratory's work begins with the reception area, where samples are received from all over the region. They are received through a special window, ensuring safety. Then the biomaterial goes through all stages of testing. First, registration, where the data is verified. Then the sample goes to the box, where it is prepared for analysis, and only after that does the research begin.

— If we talk specifically about flu and acute respiratory viral infections, we use nasal swabs for research. Probably everyone took such tests during COVID. Now is the height of the epidemic season - it lasts from October 1 to March 31, so we have enough work, — the head of the department explains.

Samples are received by the virology laboratory from clinics and hospitals. Biomaterial is collected according to the established plan for each medical institution. In addition to flu and acute respiratory viral infections, the laboratory receives samples for testing rotaviruses, enteroviruses, hepatitis, measles and other infections. These diseases circulate constantly, causing outbreaks at any time of the year.

"Our laboratory is the only one in the region. There are none in other cities and districts. Private laboratories do not conduct flu and acute respiratory viral infection tests either. We carry out these tests as part of a government order," Timur Iskakov noted.

In closed boxes, employees conduct analyses. PCR testing includes several stages: first, RNA/DNA is isolated, then amplification and detection are carried out. Both processes are carried out in isolated boxes.

— The main method for diagnosing influenza, acute respiratory viral infections and COVID-19 is PCR. In addition, the laboratory uses the ELISA method to examine viral hepatitis, measles, rubella and rotavirus infections, — says the head of the department.

The laboratory is fully staffed, and the staff regularly undergoes training and advanced training. To work with pathogens of the first and second groups, appropriate training is required. A new employee cannot start working with viruses such as SARS-CoV-2 or hepatitis B and C without additional training. The higher the pathogenicity class, the more dangerous the pathogen, so the requirements for specialists are especially strict.

According to the Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control of the Kostanay Region, since the beginning of the epidemic season, 1,479 samples from patients with acute respiratory viral infections have been tested, of which 177 gave a positive result.

— Among the identified cases, 73 are related to the influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 virus and 1 to the influenza B virus. The geography of the incidence covered Kostanay - 30 cases, Rudny - 15, Lisakovsk - 11, Kostanay district - 3, B. Mailin district - 6, Altynsarinsky - 4, Fedorovsky - 2, Karasusky, Karabalyksky, Mendykarinsky and Uzunkolsky districts - 1 case each, — noted Iskakov.

Among those infected were 25 children under 14. For comparison: in the same period last year, 121 cases of flu were registered, 44 of which were among children.

In addition to influenza, laboratory tests revealed 40 cases of COVID-19 (5 in October, 22 in November, 13 in December). Other pathogens of acute respiratory viral infections were found in 65 samples:

• Adenovirus – 4 cases (6.1%)
• Rhinovirus – 15 (23.1%)
• Parainfluenza virus types 3 and 4 – 1 each (1.5%)
• Bocavirus – 1 (1.5%)
• Coronavirus OC43 – 3 (4.4%)
• Metapneumovirus – 15 (23.1%)

Experts remind that seasonal viral infections continue to spread, so it is important to take preventive measures: avoid large crowds, wear masks in places with an increased risk of infection, and seek medical help promptly.

Alexandra GOLOVKO, photo by Larisa BOZHKO

Source:  https://top-news.kz/kak-rabotaet-edinstvennaja-v-kostanajskoj-oblasti-virusologicheskaja-laboratorij...