The 13th March 2021 marks 1 year since testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, was introduced at SCL Dunedin. Since then, SCL has expanded testing to 9 laboratories in its South Island network, with the Dunedin laboratory having performed over 80,000 tests.

This represents a massive amount of work by the laboratory scientists, technicians, and pre-analytical staff who have made this possible in the face of multiple challenges resulting from the pandemic.

At this 1 year anniversary of testing it is timely to acknowledge the commitment, tireless efforts, and professionalism that have been so important to New Zealand’s successful response to COVID-19.