Molecular testing techniques have significantly
increased the overall sensitivity and specificity
of detection of bacteria and viruses that cause
disease. The Molecular Diagnostics and Virology
section works in close partnership with the Iowa
Department of Public Health to target diseases of
public health significance – highly communicable
diseases that require intervention to reduce or stop
their spread. Such diseases include legionellosis, viral
meningitis, mumps, herpes and chicken pox.
The section also tests specimens related to disease
outbreaks, such as whooping cough (pertussis)
and norovirus, the primary cause of gastroenteritis
outbreaks in Iowa. The Hygienic Lab is the only lab in
the state that performs confirmatory norovirus tests.
Identification of these viruses allows state outbreak
investigators to optimally target remediation and
prevention strategies.
Testing is also performed in support of various
surveillance programs: viral respiratory diseases and sexually transmitted diseases through IDPH, and
arbovirus surveillance in partnership with IDPH, Iowa
State University and local public health departments.
HIGHLIGHTS
The Office of the Director consists of 10 key functional units that enable the State Hygienic Laboratory to achieve its statutory charge set forth in the Iowa Administrative Code.
The primary mission of the Disease Control Division is to test human specimens, food and water for diseases of public health significance to protect the citizens of Iowa.
The Environmental Health Division monitors drinking water, wastewater, air, soil and food for contaminants of potential environmental and public health concern.
The Division of Administration and Finance is responsible for the management of the business practices, all Hygienic Laboratory facilities, and pre/post testing support.