GB-Glasgow: JFC7A/00027 - HELMINTH / PARASITE TESTING FOR GURKHA RECRUITS.

JFC7A/00027 - HELMINTH / PARASITE TESTING FOR GURKHA RECRUITS > The Authority has a requirement for a contract to provide Helminth / parasite testing to approximately 270 Ghurkha British Army recruits per annum. The British Army recruits Ghurkha soldiers into the Infantry Training Centre each February, and the well-being and health protection of the Ghurkha forces is critical to the operational output of the Infantry Training Centre. There is a high prevalence of helminths / parasites, including strongyloide, in the Ghurkha population, with approximately 25% of Ghurkha recruits to the British Army affected. Traditionally these were treated with a single dose of albendazole, however an MOD research study found that several parasites residing within the gastrointestinal tract were resistant to albendazole therapy, therefore requiring stool and serum analysis to identify specific parasites and allow the provision of targeted, bespoke treatment. In addition, the presence of helminth infection has been associated with false negative IGRA tests to exclude latent tuberculosis infection. The implications therefore are that a small proportion of those incorrectly diagnosed with helminth infection will go on to develop active TB, therefore adding even greater importance to the testing process. The Contractor will be required to provide helminth/ parasite testing and results to the Authority within designated timelines. Duration 3 years plus 2 x option years dependent upon future MOD needs & / or Contractor Performance.