The Molecular Epidemiology Unit provides molecular laboratory testing support for:
- Foodborne illness outbreaks
- Outbreaks associated with antimicrobial resistant bacteria
- SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19
Protecting public health
Our labs help protect public health through outbreak surveillance. We detect possible outbreaks through molecular laboratory testing, such as whole genome sequencing. Finding multiple cases of a certain bacteria strain could indicate an outbreak. Epidemiologists, or disease detectives, investigate the source of contamination. This information helps guide response by public health experts.
We are part of the Antimicrobial Resistance Laboratory Network. The AR Lab Network is a nationwide testing and surveillance program. It identifies antimicrobial resistant genes and microorganisms that cause hard-to-treat infections. These infections are often associated with long-term care facilities.
We were first in North Carolina to have a diagnostic method for COVID-19. We continue tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants through whole genome sequencing.
Learn more about our laboratories
We have different laboratory rooms for the process of molecular testing, which includes:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
- Whole genome sequencing
Molecular testing often requires a unidirectional workflow, the primary reason for different rooms. This prevents false positive results due to contamination of reagents used for testing.
We provide technical help to other North Carolina State Laboratory of Public Health units that perform molecular testing.
How our testing data is used
- For state- and nationwide surveillance of COVID-19 variants and common foodborne illnesses
- By epidemiologists to inform food product recalls and actions to protect public health
- To guide policies and work practices related to food handling
- To guide policies at the NC State Fair for fairgoers and animal interactions