By Michael Gwarisa
Over the years, Gamma Allergy and Immunology (GAMMA) has distinguished itself as one of Zimbabwe’s leading and most reliable laboratories. In 2020, GAMMA, a subsidiary of Twin Palms, received the ISO 9001:2015 accreditation certificate from the Standards Association of Zimbabwe (SAZ).
While allergy testing remains GAMMA’s core focus, the organization has since expanded its services beyond allergies into other areas of immunology and diagnostics.
Justice Manhando, a Lab Supervisor at GAMMA, emphasized that the center has evolved beyond being just an allergy testing facility. He noted that it has grown into a comprehensive diagnostic and research institution offering a wide range of immunology-related services to meet diverse healthcare needs.
“On the allergy side, we offer immunology tests, which focus on the immune system. We also conduct biochemistry tests to analyze various analytes within the human body. We test for urea and other chemical compositions, as well as cardiac markers, urogenital conditions, and lipid profiles,” said Manhando.
GAMMA provides a world-class and seamless experience for patients and clients who visit the clinic.
“We strive to make the experience for patients and visitors as convenient and comfortable as possible. When someone comes in, they can walk into our clinic, have their sample taken, and undergo testing to identify possible allergic reactions and their triggers.”
To date, GAMMA has four branches, including its headquarters at 113 Kwame Nkrumah Avenue, Corner Fourth Street, as well as locations in Kuwadzana and Marondera. Plans are underway to expand services to Bulawayo and other parts of the country to decentralize access.
Specimen Transportation and Sample Handling
The GAMMA clinic in Harare a lot of samples daily, majority of the tests being allergy profiles. The organization boasts a well-coordinated sample transportation system, fully equipped with a reliable cold chain system.
“We have an efficient sample transportation system where we use bikers for quick and easy delivery of samples. This means that a patient doesn’t necessarily need to be here physically; their sample can be brought in by our dedicated bikers,” said Manhando.
To ensure accuracy and reliability, GAMMA Allergy conducts repeated quality control tests for every sample in line with ISO 15189:2022 standards.
“In order to determine the specific allergen, we run a full allergy panel. If someone suspects they have an allergy—perhaps they experience discomfort or reactions after exposure to a particular substance—they can walk into our clinic, and we will run the necessary tests.”
The Burden of Allergies in Zimbabwe
In Zimbabwe, allergies are more commonly recorded in children, although adults also experience allergic reactions. According to Manhando, young children often develop allergies when transitioning from breast milk to solid foods.
“From the data we have collected, allergies are most prevalent in young children, particularly those transitioning from breast milk to solid foods. Most food allergies occur in children aged one to two years.”
However, he noted that adults also suffer from allergies, with house dust and grass pollen being common triggers.
“Allergies are primarily caused by what we eat, followed by what we inhale. Here, we mainly test for food allergies and inhalants, although we cannot rule out the possibility that some allergies result from skin contact with certain substances.”
The Importance of Quality Lab and Diagnostic Services in Allergy and Immunology
Quality laboratory and diagnostic services play a critical role in early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective management of allergies and immunological disorders. Without proper testing, many allergic conditions go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed, leading to unnecessary suffering and complications.
