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Sep 15 2020

NSPA delivers COVID-19 testing laboratory to Kosovo Force

Luxembourg, 15 September 2020 – With the COVID-19 pandemic still active, the protection of our troops and civilian deployed in operations remains paramount. In line with its continuous commitment to assist NATO nations and partners, NSPA has delivered a COVID-19 testing laboratory, together with two laboratory technicians, to increase the testing capacity of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission service members.

On 14 September 2020, Major General Michele Risi, KFOR Commander,inaugurated the laboratory at Camp Film City in Pristina (Kosovo)

The facility, installed at Camp Film City in Pristina (Kosovo) will conduct virus detection on swab samples using RT-PCR (real time polymerase chain reaction) technology, which will enable to detect infections quickly, limiting the spread of the virus and allowing to provide the necessary medical care for those infected. 

Major General Michele Risi, KFOR Commander, inaugurated the laboratory, along with his medical advisor and high representatives of the Headquarters of the NATO-led Kosovo Force. "The laboratory is a crucial asset that will allow KFOR to better protect its force and to build resiliency during the looming threat of Covid19", stated General Risi before the cut of the ribbon. KFOR's new medical facility will reinforce the operation's capability to contribute to a safe and secure environment and freedom of movement for all communities in Kosovo, in accordance with its mandate.

"The laboratory is a crucial asset that will allow KFOR to better protect its force and to build resiliency during the looming threat of Covid19.

The laboratory is now fully operational and testing has started for its service members as of 14 September 2020. Testing is available for all personnel serving in the mission, including service members, civilians and contractors. "The laboratory is planned to provide a flexible and readily available resource for the benefit of the Commander and personnel of the KFOR mission as they address the COVID-19 pandemic consequences", explained Philip Choppen, NSPA Medical Office Chief.

In May 2020, NSPA delivered a similar laboratory to the NATO-led Resolute Support (RS) Mission in Afghanistan. In August, about 3,000 tests were executed helping to increase the testing capacity of RS service members. 

NSPA delivered a COVID-19 testing laboratory
to increase the testing capacity of the NATO-led Kosovo Force (KFOR) mission