Public Health Laboratory Service

The Public Health Laboratory Service (PHLS) was a UK organization that played a key role in protecting public health by providing laboratory diagnostic services. It focused on identifying and monitoring diseases, conducting research, and ensuring the safety of food, water, and air. By analyzing samples from patients and the environment, PHLS helped track outbreaks, support vaccinations, and inform health policies. Although it was integrated into the Health Protection Agency in 2004, its fundamental mission of safeguarding community health continues through ongoing public health lab work today.