Climate change is not only an environmental crisis but also a pressing public health concern. Rising global temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and environmental disruptions are altering the dynamics of infectious diseases worldwide. Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs)—those newly appearing in a population or rapidly increasing in incidence or range—are…
Sterilization, Disinfection, and Antisepsis: Key Principles in Infection Control In the fight against infectious diseases, controlling the spread of harmful microorganisms is crucial. Sterilization, disinfection, and antisepsis are the three main strategies used in healthcare, laboratory, and industrial settings to eliminate or reduce microbial contamination. Understanding their differences,…
IntroductionTuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest infectious diseases, primarily caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Early and accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment, patient management, and limiting the spread of infection. In medical microbiology laboratories, TB testing relies on a combination of traditional microscopy, culture methods, and…
Introduction Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are a group of debilitating infections that affect over 1.7 billion people worldwide, particularly in low-income regions. These diseases—including schistosomiasis, leishmaniasis, lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis—are often overlooked by global health priorities despite their heavy burden on public health. Microbiologists play a…
How Labs Detect Intestinal Parasites in Stool Samples Wet Mounts and Concentration Techniques Explained Stool examination remains a cornerstone in the diagnosis of intestinal parasitic infections. These infections—caused by protozoa and helminths—are especially common in developing countries but can occur anywhere due to travel and immigration. In clinical…
MRSA: How It Spreads and What Microbiology Labs Do to Detect It Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) remains a formidable public health challenge worldwide. This antibiotic-resistant bacterium is known for causing serious infections in both healthcare and community settings. Understanding how MRSA spreads—and how microbiology laboratories work to detect…
In the ever-evolving landscape of clinical diagnostics, the demand for rapid, accurate, and cost-effective microbial identification is more pressing than ever. Traditional methods—based on culture, staining, and biochemical assays—can take hours to days, delaying critical decisions in patient care. Enter MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass…