Biological tracking software optimises animal disease research

©Andrea De Martin via 123RF

"Our long-term partnership with DTRA and proven track record of quickly implementing PACS solutions for state-of-the-art laboratories around the world has helped us expand our work in South Africa with this critical animal health programme," said Tom Wahl, vice president and managing director for Europe, Middle East, and Africa, Black & Veatch Federal Business. "Our biological asset protection expertise takes on a new role in this project when the assets at hand are serious pathogens that must be handled and analysed with care."

Officials at Kruger undertake regular surveillance patrols to observe and sample various animal species. Ante- and post-mortem investigations are regularly conducted where suspicion of disease exists, and various diagnostic samples are taken for further testing and analysis at laboratories. The Office of the State Veterinarian is also involved in numerous research projects, such as studying controlled or notifiable diseases.

"As part of DTRA’s Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP), implementing PACS at Kruger National Park will improve biosecurity by tracking samples in real-time on a consolidated dashboard, enabling detailed traceability of an entire sample’s lifecycle and unique characteristics," said Dr Louis van Schalkwyk, Office of the State Veterinarian.