How to become a medical microbiologist in Nigeria

How to become a medical microbiologist in Nigeria

HOW TO BECOME A MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGIST

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, such as bacteria, viruses, achaea, fungi and protozoa. This discipline includes fundamental research on the biochemistry, physiology, cell biology, ecology, evolution and clinical aspects of micro organisms including the host’s response to these agents. A graduate of Microbiology has an averagely wide array of career and job opportunities to pick from which also includes becoming a Medical Microbiologist. Medical Microbiology is a branch of medical science concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases caused by microorganisms. It involves the various applications of microbes for the improvement of health. It is also called Clinical Microbiology.

To become a Medical Microbiologists in Nigeria, the following actions are required;
Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology or one of the biological sciences (e.g Biochemistry).
Masters degree in Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases; Advanced instruction on Infectious diseases, immunology, clinical syndromes an infections, emerging infectious diseases, molecular diagnostics of infections and intensive laboratory practice in microbiology, virology and serology. It also includes using Clinical technology and microorganisms.

Completion of at least one to two years of training in a clinical or public health laboratory.

Certification as a Clinical Microbiologist (Not compulsory).
A Doctoral degree in Clinical Microbiology (this may also include temporary Post-Doctoral research position which may last two to three years).

Medical microbiology is a pathology specialty a Medical Microbiologist’s job is to provide a consultancy service to clinical colleagues regarding care of patients with suspected infection. They advise on the most suitable samples to collect and identify the causative by microscopic examination, biochemical and molecular tests and analysis of the results. They contribute to public health strategies such as minimizing antibiotic resistance by constructing guidance on appropriate prescribing for a range of diseases and promoting patient adherence to treatment regimens. It is an exacting discipline that requires precise medical knowledge from its practitioners. An internship offers hands on training working with experienced microbiologists which exposes students to lab process and may later improve future employment opportunities.

Shyllon Olayinka Enoch, Undergraduate student of Biochemistry at Obafemi Awolowo University

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