Thailand’s Department of Medical Sciences has prepared Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories to diagnose Ebola virus infections, following heightened global concern over outbreaks in Africa. The move comes after the World Health Organization declared outbreaks of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
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On 22 May 2026, Dr Sarawut Boonsuk, Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences, said Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat had instructed all agencies under the Ministry of Public Health to strengthen disease surveillance, prevention and control measures. Authorities were also ordered to prepare for emergency public health situations in order to reassure the public.
The Department of Medical Sciences was tasked with reviewing laboratory readiness, diagnostic procedures and biosafety systems to support the handling of dangerous pathogens. This included assessing BSL-3 laboratory facilities, biosafety systems, personal protective equipment (PPE) and transport systems for high-risk samples.
Officials also strengthened genomic and molecular surveillance capabilities and prepared diagnostic test kits. Laboratory networks nationwide were coordinated to ensure suspected Ebola cases could be confirmed rapidly and accurately.
Dr Sarawut said the Department’s Public Health Science Research Institute had continuously prepared for outbreaks of severe infectious diseases. Measures included operational guidelines and confirmed testing methods for suspected cases using Real-time RT PCR, an internationally recognised standard capable of detecting viral genetic material with high sensitivity and specificity.
The department stated that test results could be delivered within eight hours after samples arrive at the laboratory. All testing is conducted within BSL-3 laboratories designed for handling highly dangerous infectious agents.
According to the department, the facilities include specialised airflow systems to prevent pathogens escaping into the environment. Laboratory staff have undergone biosafety training and are prepared to respond to outbreak situations while maintaining safety for workers and the public.
Authorities have also reviewed and rehearsed emergency laboratory response plans for dangerous communicable diseases. This includes procedures covering biosafety, transport of high-risk specimens and coordination with laboratory networks across Thailand.
ThaiRath reported that the ministry said the measures are intended to ensure Thailand can respond quickly, safely and effectively to any potential public health emergency linked to Ebola or other dangerous infectious diseases.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 23 May 2026