Introduction
Department of Microbiology was established in 2006 under the leadership of renowned Medical Microbiologist Prof. Maj Gen (R) Dr. Abdul Hannan (Late). The establishment of the department was done with an aim to produce medical teachers of high quality with strong hands-on experience and necessary skills to initiate and carry out teaching, diagnostics as well as research of internationally accepted standards. The department of Microbiology started M.Phil. & PhD Microbiology. Both programmes are approved by Pakistan Medical & Dental Council and Higher Education Commission. The department possesses a state-of-the-art laboratory with sophisticated equipment for research and diagnostic services.
Scope & Importance
Medical microbiology is a vital branch of Microbiology that focuses on the study of microorganisms responsible for causing diseases in humans. The scope of medical microbiology is broad, encompassing diagnostic microbiology, epidemiology, research, infection control, and education. Its importance cannot be overstated as it forms the foundation for understanding infectious diseases, improving patient care, guiding public health policies, and advancing medical science.
The importance of Medical Microbiology department extends beyond diagnosis and treatment. It contributes
significantly to public health by helping control and prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
Through epidemiological studies and surveillance, Medical Microbiologists track outbreaks and monitor
the emergence of new pathogens or drug-resistant strains. This information is critical in formulating
vaccination programs, infection control policies, and antibiotic stewardship protocols. For instance, the role
of Medical Microbiology was pivotal in managing pandemics such as COVID-19, where rapid
identification of the novel
coronavirus and subsequent
development of diagnostic tests and vaccines were essential in controlling the spread.
Another key area within the scope of medical microbiology is research and development. Medical Microbiologists engage in studying the mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity, antimicrobial resistance, Efficacy of new antimicrobial agents & nanoparticles against multi-drug-resistant pathogens. Advances in molecular biology and genomics have expanded the possibilities for rapid, precise identification of pathogens and understanding their genetic makeup, leading to targeted therapies and personalized medicinal approaches.
Medical Microbiology also intersects with other fields such as immunology, pharmacology, and molecular biology, making it an interdisciplinary science. This integration enhances the understanding of disease mechanisms and promotes innovation in disease management. Furthermore, the discipline is crucial in hospital settings for infection control, where microbiologists monitor and manage hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Proper identification and timely intervention help reduce HAIs, ensuring patient safety and reducing healthcare costs.
Moreover, Medical Microbiology educates healthcare professionals and the public on infectious diseases, modes of transmission, and preventive measures. This educational role is essential in promoting hygiene, vaccination acceptance, and rational use of antibiotics, which are key factors in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a growing global health threat.
In summary, the scope of Medical Microbiology is broad, encompassing diagnostic microbiology, epidemiology, research, infection control, and education. Its importance cannot be overstated as it forms the foundation for understanding infectious diseases, improving patient care, guiding public health policies, and advancing medical science. In an era marked by emerging infectious diseases, antibiotic resistance, and global health challenges, medical microbiology remains indispensable for safeguarding human health and developing innovative solutions to combat microbial threats.
