Development of national protocols for the detection of SARS human coronavirus [ 2003 - 2003 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Michael Catton (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Bryan Eaton ,  Dr Christopher Birch ,  Ms Linda Hueston ,  Prof David Smith
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Brief description This work aims to develop and to establish the accuracy of laboratory tests for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) suitable for use and for production in Australia. Accurate and timely laboratory testing will be important in detecting imported SARS cases, and preventing establishment of the disease in Australia. SARS is a severe, readily transmissible chest infection that first appeared in Southern China in November 2002. It has subsequently spread to 29 countries causing a total of 7747 cases and 552 deaths by mid May 2003. The greatest impact has been in China, with Canada the most severely affected country outside Asia. Approximately 15 percent of cases are fatal overall, with death rates increasing with age up to 50 percent over 65 years. There is, as yet, no specific cure or vaccine. The cause is a previously unknown coronavirus, a close relative of human common cold viruses. It spreads readily via contact with respiratory secretions, coughing and sneezing, and possibly in faeces. The virus is able to persist in the environment for days. An international network of WHO laboratories has made rapid progress in developing laboratory tests. Although this expertise will assist Australia in developing its own laboratory capability, Australia's laboratory test needs cannot be met from overseas. SARS laboratory tests and protocols will be developed in Australia over a 3-month period by a consortium of expert Australian laboratories. These include the Victorian Infectious Disease Reference Laboratory, the Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research at Westmead Hospital, CSIRO's Australian Animal Health Laboratory, the Cooperative Research Centre for Diagnostics, and the Western Australian Centre for Pathology and Medical Research. Tests will include methods for detection of the SARS virus in specimens, and detection of antibodies to SARS in the blood. Production of some key reagents by genetic engineering techniques is intended to improve their availability. Robustness of test methods in a diagnostic laboratory setting will be evaluated, and a quality assurance program will be implemented. An expert advisory group will assist in the development of test performance and interpretation protocols.

Funding Amount $AUD 99,650.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Strategic Awards

Notes Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome