Event highlights
12 March 2024
WHO and its partners strengthen the capacity of the Rapid Response Mobile Laboratory Network through a comprehensive simulation exercise
This exercise, the third phase in the Rapid Response Mobile Laboratories (RRML) Simulation Exercise series, brought together 6 mobile lab teams serving people affected by emergencies worldwide. The goal was to test the Minimum Operational Standards and interoperability of RRMLs in emergencies, enhancing global preparedness for public health crises.
WHO is honoured to introduce the RRML IFX.02 participants:
- the Public Health Agency of Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory;
- the University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston National Laboratory;
- EMLab, a consortium of research and public health institutions managed by the Bernhard Nocht Institute;
- B-LiFE - Biological Light Fieldable Laboratory developed by the Belgian Université catholique de Louvain;
- UK Public Health Rapid Support Team (UK-PHRST); and
- Mobile Suitcase Lab Consortium managed by Leipzig University.
The IFX.02 was co-organized by the WHO Regional Office for Europe, the Robert Koch Institute (Germany) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
The Interregional Meeting of the RRML Initiative, organized within the IFX.02, marked a crucial milestone in the evolution of the RRML Network. Led by WHO, the meeting united RRML experts and key partners. The primary objective was to collectively define the strategic approach for the RRML Network's transition into a global initiative.
Event notice
16 February 2024
The Full-Scale Interregional Field Simulation Exercise (IFX.02) marks the third phase of WHO’s simulation exercise programme for Rapid Response Mobile Laboratories (RRMLs). Building on the initial table-top exercise (TTX) in Berlin, Germany, and IFX.01 in Istanbul, Türkiye, this comprehensive field exercise will bring together operational partners from across the WHO regions. Its primary objective is to rigorously evaluate the RRML minimum operational standards, including coordination and interoperability in the field, tailored to each area of RRML work. This collaborative effort highlights a global commitment to improve the preparedness of RRMLs in addressing public health emergencies.
A 1-day meeting will be held on 16 February 2024 as part of IFX.02. It will bring together RRML Network members and rapid response stakeholders to establish an Interregional Coordination Group for the RRML Initiative (ICG/RRML).
The objectives of the ICG/RRML meeting are:
- to provide an overview of the ongoing development of the RRML Initiative and propose scenarios for its continued strengthening up to 2030.
- to foster consensus on the vision, mission, goals, objectives and values of the RRML Initiative.
- to reach an agreement on the structure and content of the terms of reference for the ICG/RRML.
- to identify the process for establishing the structure of the ICG/RRML.
Additionally, the meeting will provide the opportunity for participants to explore avenues for enhancing collaboration and coordination with One Health and chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high yield explosives (CBRNe) partners.