UK SMI reissued on identification of bacteria and fungi

Following a scientific review and consultation, Public Health England (PHE) has reissued guidance on the preliminary identification of medically important bacteria and fungi from culture.

In partnership with the NHS, Public Health Wales and other professional organisations, PHE developed the UK Standards for Microbiology Investigations (UK SMIs). These UK SMIs are intended as a resource for UK based professionals working in laboratory medicine.

The new additions to the document include:

• An updated title and references
• The addition of fungi to the document’s discussion
• An updated section on technical limitations
• The identification section has been improved with additions on advanced molecular methods and MALDI-TOF MS
• Updated flowcharts, and a flowchart on fungi characteristics has been added

Whilst this consultation has concluded, you can review users’ comments online. Should you have any questions or comments about this UK SMI, contact standards@phe.gov.uk.