Dubai Central Laboratory Deploys AI for Legionella Bacteria Detection

Photo : Dubai Government Media office
 

Dubai Central Laboratory, operating under the umbrella of Dubai Municipality, has introduced a pioneering artificial intelligence (AI) technology aimed at detecting Legionella pulmonary bacteria, a significant contributor to various acute respiratory infections. This innovative method, the first of its kind in the region, boasts unparalleled accuracy in identifying live colonies of Legionella bacteria while providing precise quantification of bacterial counts in specimen concentrations, achieving a remarkable accuracy rate of 99%.

This cutting-edge technology not only ensures the accuracy and reliability of results but also streamlines the process, significantly reducing the time required for analysis. With fewer demands for laboratory supplies, the implementation of AI-based detection systems facilitates a faster completion rate for examinations, enhancing the efficiency of laboratory operations.

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Eng. Hind Mahmoud Ahmed, Director of the Dubai Central Laboratory Department, emphasized Dubai Municipality's unwavering commitment to advancing digital infrastructure within its laboratories. By equipping these facilities with state-of-the-art systems, the Municipality aims to bolster the effectiveness of Dubai's health and safety framework. This latest initiative underscores the Municipality's dedication to upholding globally recognized standards for laboratory practices, calibration certificates, and ensuring public health and wellness.

Eng. Hind further highlighted the accreditation of this groundbreaking detection method by esteemed organizations such as the European Water Testing Network and AOAC International. Notably, the technology's rapid turnaround time of 48 hours, compared to the conventional 14-day period, underscores its efficiency and reliability in producing accurate results.

The Dubai Central Laboratory Department conducts over 100,000 tests annually across various sectors, including microbiological analysis of food, environmental water, and consumer products. These tests, conducted in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standards, are integral to safeguarding the safety and quality of goods available in Dubai markets. Moreover, the laboratory conducts extensive research and development studies to enhance its capabilities in responding swiftly to diverse microbiological challenges.

The implementation of this advanced technology aligns with Dubai Municipality's overarching objective of ensuring consumer health and safety across different sectors. Through rigorous microbiological examinations, the laboratory system endeavors to prevent microbial contamination and mitigate the transmission of diseases through various commodities and products.

The Dubai Central Laboratory system comprises specialized laboratories covering chemical analysis, microbiological analysis, infrastructure and construction materials, metrology, and electromechanical devices. These facilities cater to a wide range of sectors, including food, health, industry, and environmental management, providing comprehensive testing services supported by an integrated technological framework comprising nearly 5,000 systems and devices. Additionally, the laboratory offers technical consultations, specialized training, and inspection and calibration services, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring high-quality living standards for residents.