Morocco’s locally-made mpox test, endorsed by Africa CDC, marks a pivotal shift towards self-reliance in African public health, challenging the continent’s long-standing dependence on external medical solutions.
At a Glance
- Africa CDC approves Morocco’s first locally manufactured Real-Time PCR test for mpox
- The test detects mpox virus DNA from blood, saliva, or tissue samples
- Over 50,000 mpox cases and around 1,100 deaths recorded in Africa this year
- Central Africa accounts for more than 85% of cases and nearly all deaths
- Approval aligns with African Union’s efforts to enhance self-sufficiency in public health
A Milestone for African Health Innovation
African public health will soon begin leaning on Morocco, rather than the United States, after the Africa CDC endorsed the first locally manufactured Real-Time PCR test for mpox from Morocco. This approval marks a crucial step towards self-reliance in Africa’s health systems, challenging the narrative of external dependence for medical solutions. The test, capable of detecting mpox virus DNA from various sample types, including blood, saliva, and tissue, promises to be a game-changer in the continent’s fight against the outbreak.
The endorsement comes at a critical time, with over 50,000 mpox cases and approximately 1,100 deaths recorded in Africa this year. Central Africa bears the brunt of this outbreak, accounting for more than 85% of cases and nearly all fatalities. This locally produced test kit is not just a medical tool; it’s a testament to Africa’s potential in producing high-quality medical countermeasures.
.@AfricaCDC’s Diagnostic Advisory Committee (DAC) has endorsed #Morocco’s first locally made #PCRTest for mpox—boosting Africa’s health self-reliance and outbreak response. This test quickly detects pathogen #DNA in blood, saliva or tissue.
READ MORE- https://t.co/39lKurRj87— Africa CDC (@AfricaCDC) November 14, 2024
Strengthening Africa’s Health Resilience
The approval of this test aligns perfectly with the African Union’s efforts to bolster self-sufficiency in public health systems across the continent. It’s a clear demonstration of Africa’s growing capability to respond effectively to its own health challenges. The Africa CDC, in collaboration with member states, has been at the forefront of this push, providing PCR and genome sequencing test kits, training, and advisory support for national testing strategies.
“At Moldiag, we are dedicated to supporting Africa’s health resilience through the development of locally manufactured diagnostic tools. We believe that strengthening local production is key to empowering the continent in its epidemic preparedness and response, allowing us to respond rapidly and effectively to public health challenges. We are proud to align with Africa CDC’s vision of a self-sufficient and health-secure Africa,” Ms. Nawal Chraibi, The Chief Executive Officer of Moldiag, said.
This sentiment echoes the broader vision of the African Union’s “A New Public Health Order for Africa,” which emphasizes local manufacturing of diagnostics as a strategic pillar. The success of this Moroccan-made test kit serves as an inspiration and a blueprint for other African nations to follow suit, potentially revolutionizing the continent’s approach to public health crises.
Impact on Mpox Response
The timing of this approval is crucial, given the severity of the mpox outbreak in Africa. With both the Africa CDC and the World Health Organization declaring it a public health emergency in mid-August, the need for effective diagnostic tools has never been more pressing. The locally manufactured PCR test kit offers a reliable and swift method to detect the virus, potentially saving countless lives.
“The PCR test kit for mpox, locally manufactured in Morocco, which passed through stringent criteria, recommended by our DAC to be shortlisted is testament that quality medical counter measures including diagnostics can be availed locally during outbreaks. I would like to congratulate Morocco for this outstanding achievement and encourage African Union Member States to consider the use of this testing solution as they continue responding to the mpox outbreak,” Dr. Jean Kasey, the Director General of Africa CDC, said.
The Africa CDC is actively encouraging member states to utilize this testing solution in their response to the mpox outbreak. This move not only enhances the continent’s diagnostic capabilities but also promotes a sense of ownership and self-reliance in addressing health emergencies. As Africa continues to grapple with various public health challenges, innovations like this Moroccan-made test kit pave the way for a more resilient and self-sufficient health infrastructure across the continent.
