WHO in collaboration with the Ministry of Health conducted a workshop for the public health laboratory staff under the EWARS programme, from 3 to 5 November 2013.

The main objectives of the workshop were to refresh the knowledge of the participants on laboratory issues related to the diseases reported under EWARS programme. Methods of laboratory diagnosis and specimen issues (including collecting, reserving and shipping specimens to the central or local laboratories) were discussed. A brief on the current epidemiological situation was also provided during the workshop

The workshop was attended by 51 participants from the health departments of Damascus, Qunaterah and Homs, and from the reference laboratories in Damascus.

Sample collection kits were distributed to the workshop participants along with oral fluid samples (for measles investigation). Soft copies of all presentations delivered during the workshop were sent to all participants.