National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases

File:National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Logo.png

National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases Logo

National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) is a premier medical research institute located in Kolkata, India. It operates under the aegis of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India. NICED is dedicated to research on cholera, diarrheal diseases, and other enteric diseases with the aim of developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

History

The institute was established in 1962 in response to the need for a specialized research unit to address the high incidence of cholera and other enteric diseases in India. Since its inception, NICED has played a pivotal role in understanding the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and control measures of enteric diseases prevalent in the country.

Research and Development

NICED conducts a wide range of research activities focusing on the study of bacteriology, virology, immunology, and epidemiology of enteric diseases. The institute is equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities to support its research mission. Key research areas include:

• Development of vaccines for cholera and other diarrheal diseases
• Molecular genetics of enteric pathogens
• Mechanisms of pathogenesis
• Immune response and protection against enteric infections
• Surveillance and outbreak investigation of enteric diseases

Public Health Initiatives

NICED plays a crucial role in public health through its involvement in vaccine development, surveillance of enteric diseases, and outbreak response. The institute collaborates with national and international organizations to implement public health programs aimed at reducing the burden of enteric diseases. It also provides training and capacity building for healthcare professionals in the field of enteric disease research and management.

Facilities

The institute boasts a range of facilities including advanced laboratories for microbiology, molecular biology, and immunology, as well as a biotechnology wing. NICED also has a specialized library with a vast collection of resources on cholera, enteric diseases, and related subjects.

Collaborations

NICED collaborates with various national and international organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and universities across the globe. These collaborations aim to enhance research capabilities and share knowledge in the field of enteric diseases.

Achievements

Over the years, NICED has made significant contributions to the understanding and control of cholera and other enteric diseases. Its achievements include the development of oral rehydration solutions (ORS), contributions to the development and testing of oral cholera vaccines, and significant research findings on the genetics and resistance patterns of enteric pathogens.

See Also

• Indian Council of Medical Research
• Cholera
• Diarrheal diseases
• Vaccine
• Public health