Since 1998 the PHL-HSE-DML has been providing a VTEC diagnostic service based on phenotypic methods. This service was extended in 2002 to a National service incorporating molecular typing facilities. Current VTEC diagnostic facilities at PHL, HSE, DML include:
- Sample analysis for E. coli O157 and non-O157 utilising enrichment and IMS methodology
- E. coli serotyping for O157 and non-O157
- Verotoxin analysis by PCR
- PCR analysis for VT1 and VT2, eae genes from O157 and non-O157 isolates.
- O157, O26, O145, O121, O103, O104 and O111 PCR
- PFGE, this has been utilised in outbreak investigations. The PHL is a member of PulseNet Europe
- The PHL is a member ECED-FWD. Participation in this enteric network means that the PHL is at the forefront of recognising food and water-borne VTEC infection and will enable investigations to be mounted to identify contaminated sources and thus protect consumers in an EU context.
- Automated DNA extraction and PCR for the detection of VTEC in Foods.
