Evaluation of PulseNet China network laboratories proficiency testing

Objective To realize standardization of PFGE subtyping procedure for PulseNet China network laboratories. Methods The laboratory proficiency testing program was performed in 19 province/municipal centers for disease control and prevention which possessed standardized equipments. Results Up to 78.9% of the laboratories have passed the testing, and the data showed that the similarity of the patterns generated by the laboratories was 100%. Conclusion The laboratories passed the proficiency testing have sufficient capacity to perform the subtyping of pathogenic bacteria from their provinces and be included in PulseNet China.