Norman Sharples, COPAN Diagnostics’ CEO, and Dr. Suzane Silbert, from Tampa General were recently invited to participate in the II Series of International Microbiology Conferences in Lima, Peru. In addition to Norman and Dr. Silbert, Dr. Oscar Escalante, from the Laboratory of Enteropathogens at the National Institute of Health, was also invited to present his research. The conference focused on the importance of the pre-analytical phase of Microbiology and the technological advances of sample collection and preservation. The seminar was on September 28^th, 2017 from 14:00 to 20:00. It took place at the Cámara de Comercio de Lima (Lima Chamber of Commerce). With over 225 participants, this notable event was very well attended by Peru’s key opinion leaders from both the public and private sector.

During the seminar, Norman discussed the importance of the pre-analytical phase in collection and preservation of the sample in Microbiology and its role in healthcare, as well as the general considerations for the manufacture of transport systems according to the CLSI M40-A2 standard. Dr. Silbert focused on her research work at the Esoteric Testing/R&D Laboratory at Tampa General Hospital in Florida. She discussed the technological advances in the design of sample collection and preservation kits and Liquid Based Microbiology, as it specifically relates to testing by molecular techniques. Due to Peru’s rich geography, sample collection and transport presents unique challenges and opportunities. Finally, Dr. Escalante presented his evaluation of FecalSwab^® in the research department of the National Institute of Health.

It was a memorable evening and COPAN is proud to have been able to participate in such an important and valuable conference. Special thanks the attendees for their warm welcome and to Ruth Iparraguirre and her whole team at GEN LAB DEL PERU for an impeccably planned and flawlessly executed event!!!