Affiliated with the Ministry of Health of Laos, our centre was founded in 2009 to provide laboratory testing and promote research and training activities.
The Centre d’Infectiologie Christophe Mérieux of Laos (CILM) was established in 2009 to serve public health. Today, it is integrated into the Lao public health infrastructure under the guidance of the Lao Ministry of Health.
Our origins date back to 2005. At the time, the country had no clinical biology facilities, which represented a genuine public health concern, since it is essential for patients have access to reliable, quality diagnostics so that they can receive effective treatment.
Following a visit by the Lao Minister of Health to France, Dr. Christophe Mérieux decided to address the pressing need for diagnostic laboratories. His determination and the continuous support of the Foundation have contributed the successful development of the Centre.
CILM and the Fondation Mérieux (an independent family foundation in France) are separate entities, with distinct identities.
A permanent staff of 12 people are employed by the Centre. Each year, the Strategic Orientation Council brings together members from the Ministry of Health, the Mérieux Foundation, and international public health institutions. The purpose of this annual meeting is to define the Centre’s development strategy in response to the country’s healthcare needs.
Affiliated with the Ministry of Health and located on the grounds of the University campus, the CILM offers an exceptional setting for high-quality applied research in the field of infectious diseases. It is a focal point for the advancement of knowledge as well as training health professionals, alongside our core activities to provide essential laboratory analyses and improve access to diagnostics for patients.