Africa has taken a significant step forward in the battle against mpox, previously known as monkeypox, with the recent approval of the first locally produced Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test from Morocco. The announcement from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) heralds this development as a major milestone, underscoring the importance of self-sufficiency for the continent's health systems.
The PCR test from Moldiag, a Moroccan company, has been shown to accurately detect the DNA of the mpox virus not only from infected blood but also from saliva and tissue samples. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa CDC, emphasized the significance of this test during a media briefing, highlighting its reliability and effectiveness. Following rigorous testing conducted primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Africa CDC endorsed the Moldiag test, marking its entry as the first real-time PCR diagnostic tool for mpox developed locally.
“This test was approved after rigorous evaluations and confirms its sensitivity to clade 1b and other variants present across Africa,” Kaseya stated. The test’s affordability is another pivotal factor; priced at just $6 per test, it presents significant savings compared to existing testing options such as the Gene Xpert tests, which are often more expensive. Interestingly, if purchased in bulk, Moldiag can provide the tests for as low as $5 each, making it economically feasible for widespread use.
The approval for the mpox test aligns with the Africa CDC's broader strategy to strengthen local healthcare capabilities and technologies, particularly as the continent faces increasing health challenges. The test catalyzes efforts to empower African countries to manage disease outbreaks more effectively and respond to public health challenges swiftly. Nawal Chraibi, CEO of Moldiag, expressed pride in her company’s contribution, stating, “We believe strengthening local production is key to empowering the continent.”
This development arrives at a time when the mpox outbreak is far from under control. The Africa CDC recently reported alarming statistics, with 2,836 new cases and 34 deaths registered within just one week. The Central Africa region is currently the hardest hit, accounting for over 85% of all reported cases and fatalities. Kaseya noted, “Mpox is not under control in Africa,” reinforcing the urgent need for effective diagnostic and preventative measures.
Since the start of this year, Africa has recorded over 50,000 mpox cases and approximately 1,100 deaths. The recent upswing led both the Africa CDC and the World Health Organization to declare the outbreak a public health emergency back in August. Despite vaccination campaigns meeting or exceeding targets in countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, challenges persist—particularly evident with Nigeria, which has delays due to logistical issues surrounding vaccine supply and liability concerns.
While the emergence of the Moldiag test showcases local ingenuity and response capabilities, it also highlights the necessity for continuous support and development of health systems throughout Africa. It’s not just about having tests or vaccines, but ensuring there’re enough resources, infrastructure, and trained personnel to roll them out effectively. This latest approval marks just the beginning of what is hoped to be more empowered healthcare responses across the continent, potentially leading to improved containment and management of future outbreaks.
The World Health Organization had previously sanctioned the Alinity m MPXV assay, allowing for the detection of mpox from swabs collected from human lesions. This approval alongside the Moldiag test lays the groundwork for more comprehensive testing capabilities within Africa, which is particularly important for early detection and mitigation efforts.
With technology and testing improving, the emphasis is on coordination, education, and resource allocation to help communities understand and mitigate the risks associated with mpox. Dr. Yenew Kebede Tebeje, Africa CDC's Head of Laboratory Systems, highlighted these efforts, saying, “Empowering our health systems to become self-sufficient is the ultimate goal. The Moldiag test is just one part of the larger picture.”
Despite the advancements, the Africa CDC remains vigilant. Uganda’s mpox situation, with 184 new confirmed cases recently, continues to be alarming, and officials are quick to respond to any signs of escalation. Vaccination efforts are underway, with hopes to curb the spread effectively before it spirals out of control.
The approval of the Moldiag test carries with it hope but also serves as a reminder of the vigilance required as Africa continues to grapple with this outbreak. Experts agree on the need for constant monitoring and timely medical responses, ensuring communities are adequately equipped and informed.
So, what’s next? With the new testing capability, local authorities are expected to ramp up testing efforts significantly, allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment plans for those infected. This proactive change might not just save lives but also help alleviate the anxiety caused by the spread of mpox, fostering greater community trust and health security.
Africa’s fight against infectious diseases like mpox is significant, and as they navigate this health crisis, the prioritization of local solutions such as the Moldiag test exemplifies the continent's potential for adaptation and resilience.
