Empowering Nepali health workforce with training on safe shipping of infectious substances

Safe handling and transportation of infectious samples are critical for laboratory investigations and the identification of infectious pathogens.

However, this process also carries risks that must be managed carefully to ensure safe transportation and maintain integrity of biological specimens. To minimize the risk of accidental exposure and contamination, laboratory-based health professionals need to be well-versed with the regulations and best practices for handling and transporting such hazardous materials.

To address these concerns, the Ministry of Health and Population (MoHP), with WHO support, organized a workshop from 16-18 April 2024 in Lalitpur, Nepal. The workshop trained laboratory professionals in the safe packaging and transportation of infectious substances, in alignment with the recommendations outlined in the International Health Regulations 2005 (IHR 2005) and Joint External Evaluation for Nepal.

Christian Fuster, Technical Officer, Global Influenza Program, WHO facilitating the workshop on safe shipping of infectious disease in Bagmati province, Nepal. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya                

Twenty-five laboratory personnel from human health, animal health and food sector were trained in the workshop. These included experts and professionals from National Influenza Centre-National Public Health Laboratory (NPHL), Provincial Public Health Laboratories across all seven provinces, Central Veterinary Laboratory, Department of Food and Technology and National Tuberculosis Control Center.

Practical demonstrations on the transportation of infectious clinical samples conducted during the workshop. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya

Led by International Air Transport Association (IATA) certified trainers, the training based on the WHO’s global guidance on regulations for the transport of infectious substances covered key aspects of classifying, identifying, packaging, marking, labeling, and documentation of infectious substances, cold chain maintenance and emergency response protocols.

Participants engaged in lectures, practical exercises and demonstrations to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and ensure sample integrity throughout the shipping process.

Participants from the workshop. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya       

Following evaluation via tests and practical assessments, all participants were successful in receiving a certification as “Shippers of Infectious Substances” for a period of two years. This certification, accredited by IATA and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) confirms their compliance with international transportation standards and aligns with recommendations from the IHR 2005.

Practical demonstrations on the transportation of infectious clinical samples held during the workshop. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya              

By becoming certified shippers of infectious substances, these professionals are now better equipped to support global efforts in infectious disease surveillance and response, including supporting the SEAR Influenza Laboratory Network.

Participants of the workshop engaged in a discussion with the facilitator. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya

This initiative also represents a collaborative effort among WHO headquarters, the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia (SEARO), and the WHO Country Office for Nepal, demonstrating a strong commitment to fostering regional cooperation within WHO SEARO. As part of this effort, WHO Nepal, in partnership with WHO Bhutan, included two participants from Bhutan, representing the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Animal and Livestock.

Participants engaged in evaluation tests and discussions. Photo credit: WHO Nepal/S.G.Amatya

"Training health professionals to handle infectious substances safely and efficiently is crucial for building resilience against public health emergencies. By improving biosafety and biosecurity practices, the workshop has enabled Nepal to strengthen its laboratory capacity and develop a skilled workforce capable of effectively managing infectious disease threats," said Dr Ranjan Raj Bhatta, Director of NPHL, MoHP.

“Nepal now has a locally certified group of shippers capable of meeting the growing demand for transporting infectious substances abroad for further analysis, including illness confirmation. This targeted training has empowered individuals with the necessary knowledge and tools and contributes towards global and national sustainable biorisk management," said Dr Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, WHO Representative to Nepal.

A refresher course will be held for the participants in 2026.

Quotes from the participants