Virology Unit

The NPML is an internationally recognized and WHO supported and accredited laboratory, having the facilities for serology, cell culture, virus isolation and PCR-Molecular sequencing for virological investigation of samples from EPI. It designated as a National Reference Laboratory for detection of polio and non-polio entero virus from stool/AFP and environmental  sewage samples for the national AFP surveillance system, aimed to eradicate wild polio from the country. NPML is also the reference laboratory to detect antibody and viruses from serum and nasopharyangeal for Measles, Rubella and Congenital Rubella Syndrome survilance EPI program. it is also engaged with the serological and virological study of emerging viral diseases including Rabies, HIV, Dengue, Corona Virus (COVID-19),  Measles, Rubella, Japanese encephalitis and dengue for their prevention and control.

The virology unit is manned by a group of virologists and technologists, trained both in home and abroad. It may be mentioned here the laboratory also works as a member of the regional and international lab network, with regular referral mechanisms with the US-CDC, Atlanta, RRL-Bangkok and ERC, India.

HIV /AIDS Laboratory:

Facilities for Screening and Confirmatory tests of HIV/AIDS are provided through this lab. This is the first national HIV/AIDS reference lab in the country. The laboratory is playing important role in the country in prevention and control of HIV/AIDS.