Improving the methoоdological basis for teaching methods of laboratory diagnosis of tularemia

• Tatyana A. Malyukova
• Yuri A. Popov
• Boyko A.V.
• Aislu M. Senichkina
• Adilya S. Abdrashitova
• Natalia E. Shcherbakova
• Olga Yu. Lyashova
• Irina V. Terekhova
• Natalia I. Vakhrushina

Abstract

Training of bacteriologists and laboratory technicians working with agents of pathogenicity groups I-II requires the formation of a pool of microorganism strains characterized by attenuated virulence. Availability of a standardized training set of strains allows for implementing the schedule of the training module during practical classes on mastering regulated laboratory diagnostic methods to the full extent.

The aim of the study was to select Francisella tularensis strains with reduced virulence to form a standardized training set.

Material and methods. Studies of Francisella strains were carried out using analytical, microbiological, molecular-biological, immunodiagnostic and biological methods, and mass spectrometric analysis.

Results and discussion. Strains of F. tularensis have been assorted; an algorithm and a differentiated approach to using each strain in mastering regulated methods for indicating and identifying the causative agent of tularemia have been developed. Standard training sets of pathogenic biological agent simulator samples have been designed for practical training.

Conclusion. Application of the training set of F. tularensis strains makes it possible to minimize the risk of laboratory infection of students during professional retraining courses and to fully master the methods of indication and identification of the tularemia microbe, regulated in the Russian Federation.

Keywords:Francisella tularensis; training set of strains; training of specialists; biological safety; laboratory diagnostics of tularemia

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