Mobile One Health Laboratory Enables On-Site Pathogen Diagnostics
Outbreaks of infectious diseases often occur in regions lacking high-security laboratories or efficient logistics. With the EU-funded MOBILISE project, the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) and its partners aim to close this gap by developing a mobile diagnostic laboratory. Based on the One Health approach, the unit is capable of analyzing samples from humans, animals and the environment.
The concept addresses a common issue in outbreak management: delays caused by sample shipping and lack of infrastructure. A mobile lab that includes molecular biological, microbiological, and serological diagnostics allows for immediate response.
Such systems are especially important when access to affected areas is limited and laboratory capacity is lacking. This kind of on-site analysis helps guide decisions about treatment and containment.
Compact and flexible design for remote deployments
Previous vehicle-based laboratories were often too large and heavy, typically weighing 30 to 40 tons, to reach remote locations. MOBILISE offers a different solution. The mobile lab is built on a four-wheel-drive, all-terrain truck platform. During operation, the internal laboratory space can be expanded to three times its base size using extendable side walls. The entire lab remains under constant negative pressure to ensure biosafety and is equipped with bacteria- and virus-proof filters for air intake and exhaust. Solid and liquid waste generated in the lab is fully autoclaved on site. Power is supplied in an environmentally friendly way by solar panels and rechargeable batteries. A small wind turbine is under development to further support energy independence. Additionally, a diesel generator is available as a backup system. The prototype was developed by MDSC Systems OU (Estonia).
European collaboration for global public health
The prototype is currently undergoing testing at the FLI’s headquarters on the island of Riems until 20 June 2025. Initial field trials have already taken place in Germany and Austria, with further tests scheduled in Greece and East Africa. Before operational deployment, additional licenses must be acquired. The MOBILISE project is coordinated by the Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine in Hamburg.
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