Challenges in Medical Microbiology in Indian scenario in the backdrop of International Health Regulations Compliance

Introduction: The International Health Regulations (IHR) were formulated in 1969 and finally revised in 2005 to develop a universal approach to public health to tackle international spread of diseases so that adequate response can be initiated timely and avoiding unnecessary restrictions on international trade and travel. Discussion: There are eight IHR core capacities viz. Legislation policy, Coordination, Surveillance, Response, Preparedness, Risk Communication, Human resource and Laboratory. When speaking of infectious diseases and public health risks particularly Public Health Emergencies of International Concern (PHEIC) substantial lab work has to be covered by medical microbiologists. A laboratory total quality programme is a laboratory core capacity that has to be achieved in designated labs for delivering standard quality services. Six key strategic pillars for building laboratory capacity for IHR implementation has been laid out. Conclusion: Medical microbiologists, people in the administration, policy makers and all stake-holders also have to come on board to formulate precise strategy that fits the Indian health system for optimum output towards a healthy society.