In December 2014 this center became the National Reference Laboratory for Plague, Tularemia and Q fever. The scope of this laboratory is as follows:
- Tests for bacteria Yersinia pestis include serological tests (ELISA and rapid test), culture (if necessary) and molecular diagnosis based on Real Time PCR for diagnosis and confirmation of the disease and to monitor local, regional and national epidemiology.
- Tests for the bacterium Francisella tularensis include serological test (ELISA and Immunofluorescence), culture (if necessary) and molecular diagnosis by Real Time PCR for detection and confirmation of the tularemia disease and epidemiological monitoring of local, regional and national levels.
- Tests for bacteria Coxiella burnetii include serological tests (ELISA and Immunofluorescence), and molecular diagnosis based on Conventional and Real Time PCR for diagnosis and confirmation of the Q fever disease and epidemiological monitoring of local, regional and national levels.
- Completion and development of above-mentioned diagnostic methods and updating them on the basis of the criteria and national and international protocols.
- Cooperation and development of standardized diagnostic procedures and requirements related to activities in this area.
- Cooperation in preparing educational packages, including leaflets, books, guidelines and training CDs.
- Cooperation in the implementation of an external quality control program if necessary.
- Cooperation in setting up laboratories in the neighboring medical universities.
- Providing scientific advice to solve problems related to the activities of this center across the country.