Rabies Reference Laboratory

VLA is the National Reference Laboratory for:

  • Rabies Diagnosis and Surveillance, EU Recognised Laboratory for Rabies Serology (Pet Travel Scheme)
  • OIE Reference Laboratory
  • WHO Collaborating Centre for the Characterisation of Lyssaviruses.
Image of testing for rabies

This means we aim to: 

  • ensure rapid detection of a rabies incident and plan for a rapid scale-up contingency.
  • provide consultancy and information on the global situation.
  • provide a means of tracing the source of new outbreaks by molecular epidemiology.
  • provide serological testing to support pet travel schemes.