Last Updated on Sunday, 30 November 2025, 19:44 by Writer
The Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) has handed over a state-of-the-art portable, mobile (polymerase chain reaction (PCR) instrument along with a supply of testing cartridges to the Ministry of Health’s National Public Health Reference Laboratory (NPHRL), marking a significant boost to Guyana’s capacity for rapid disease detection and outbreak response, the Health Ministry said in a statement.
The equipment was handed over to Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Narine Singh by CARPHA’s Executive Director, Dr Lisa Indar.
“Valued at USD $300,000, this advanced diagnostic equipment enables results within two hours, allowing health officials to swiftly identify priority pathogens and respond to public health threats with greater efficiency.
The portable system is designed for flexibility and can be deployed across regions, including remote and hinterland communities, ensuring equitable access to timely testing,” the health ministry said in a statement.
The PCR platform can detect a wide range of infectious diseases, including dengue and other vector-borne illnesses.
Additionally, the ministry said the cartridges provided support testing for foodborne pathogens, norovirus, and leptospirosis, enhancing Guyana’s ability to manage both endemic and emerging diseases.
Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony emphasised that this new machine will be extremely valuable in delivering timely results and significantly improving the speed and accuracy of disease diagnosis.
Meanwhile, the CARPHA Executive Director emphasised the importance of this technology in strengthening regional health security. She noted that the machine’s rapid turnaround time and portability will significantly improve the country’s ability to respond to outbreaks quickly, safeguard communities, and support ongoing surveillance efforts.
The Ministry of Health expressed deep appreciation to CARPHA for its continued partnership and commitment to enhancing public health capacity.
The donation to the NPHRL forms part of broader regional initiatives to modernise laboratory systems, strengthen preparedness, and build resilience against current and future health threats.
With this new equipment, Guyana is better positioned to protect its population, support faster clinical decision-making, and reinforce national and regional disease monitoring systems, the ministry added.
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