A new laboratory named the Diagnostic Accelerator has been established at Porton Down in Wiltshire to enhance the UK's pandemic response capabilities.

This facility is unique in the UK as it is equipped with an X-ray irradiator, which safely deactivates viruses before scientific analysis.

The Diagnostic Accelerator plays a significant role in the global 100 Days Mission, which aims to ensure effective vaccine deployment within 100 days of a new pandemic.

UKHSA's chief scientific officer, Dr. Isabel Oliver, emphasized the importance of preparing for future pandemics, including avian flu, which has seen limited human infections.

Dr. Oliver also noted that environmental changes and demographic factors are contributing to the likelihood of future pandemics, highlighting the uncertainty of their occurrence.

Recent concerns include Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, which has shown high contagion rates, with around 900 deaths reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2024 and five confirmed cases of a newer strain in the UK.

Richard Vipond, deputy director at UKHSA, mentioned ongoing efforts to develop next-generation tests that could be utilized in both the UK and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The laboratory is also focused on improving the efficiency of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are essential for identifying viral infections through genetic material.

According to UKHSA chief executive Prof Dame Jenny Harries, these advancements aim to keep the UK at the forefront of pandemic preparedness.