John G. Thomas Microbiology Symposium
MOUNTAINEER ROOTS – GLOBAL BRANCHES
The initial goals were modest; create an annual forum to instruct, communicate, link and collaborate among West Virginia clinical microbiologists. It was created to recognize the unique nature of microbes from a population embedded entirely in Appalachia and track, highlight unusual features via a WV Statewide antibiotic antibiogram and a repository for unusual microbial isolates.
How things change! Now, the Symposium attracts attendees from six states and communicates via web-link and ecommerce to the world. It has integrated with pharmacists and nurses with continuing education certification. And the logo epitomizes its WV goals: education, first with an emphasis on laboratory detection, recognizing global public health and epidemiologic pressures.
THE ANNUAL MICROBIOLOGY SYMPOSIUM: THE HISTORY
PHASE 1: 1990 to 1997 – It all began as a mission to increase awareness of microbiology in clinical laboratories within the state of West Virginia. The goals and objectives were clearly outlined as assist in continuing education, improve laboratory performance, monitor antibiotic resistance, and improve cooperation/communication among West Virginia and surrounding laboratories. It was also meant to become a repository for WV unusual microorganisms, recognizing the unique population of Northern Appalachia. Upon his arrival Dr. Thomas initiated the program and by the Fall of 1990 had created enough interest in diagnostic virology to have the first Fall Symposium. The initial symposium was held in the WVU Health Sciences Center with a modest turnout and created the catalyst for more intimate conversations within WV microbiology laboratories.
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Past Symposiums