The CEZPD has a strong track record in providing a comprehensive capacity for the differential diagnosis and research of viral haemorrhagic fevers, arthropod-borne diseases, human rabies, anthrax, plague, leptospirosis and other infectious diseases of public health importance. Furthermore, CEZPD offers specialised parasitological diagnostic tests and is involved in the surveillance of drug-resistant malaria and vector control strategies in South Africa. The CEZPD, in addition, provides training to BSc Hons, MSc and PhD students, and national and international research fellows in laboratory techniques, including training in working in BSL3 and BSL4 biocontainment facilities.