Congratulations to Dr. Subodha Wickramasinghe, who recently presented a collaborative research abstract at the 34th Annual Scientific Sessions of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, held from 28th to 30th July 2025 at the Monarch Imperial, Sri Jayawardenepura.

The abstract, titled “Use of the rapid, multiplex PCR panel for the identification of respiratory pathogens and the resistance genes among patients admitted with lower respiratory tract infections to a tertiary care hospital in Southern Province, Sri Lanka,” was part of this year’s conference theme: “Advancing Infectious Disease Diagnosis, Management, and AMR: Integrating Genomics and One Health Approaches.”

Dr. Wickramasinghe led the writing and presenting the abstract, which was the result of a group effort focused on improving how lower respiratory infections are diagnosed and managed in hospital settings. The study explored the use of rapid, multiplex PCR panels to identify both pathogens and resistance genes in patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs). These tools are becoming increasingly valuable for guiding timely treatment decisions and combating antimicrobial resistance.

Prof. Ajith De Silva Nagahawatte also participated in the event, representing the collaborative team. It was wonderful to see this collaborative work presented at one of the most important annual gatherings of microbiologists in Sri Lanka, and to see Dr. Wickramasinghe represent the team.

Congratulations Dr. Wickramasinghe!