Laboratory diagnostics play a crucial role in the Ebola virus disease outbreak response in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Bulape, the establishment of an on-site laboratory has significantly strengthened the response. With support from WHO, two GeneXpert machines and more than 600 cartridges were delivered to Bulape, enabling diagnosis in less than two hours and rapid initiation of appropriate treatment. In addition, 12 laboratory technicians were trained in biosafety and rapid diagnosis, thereby strengthening local capacity.
