The African Union’s health authority, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), announced Thursday its endorsement of Morocco’s locally produced mpox test—a significant step in combating the ongoing outbreak across the continent. This endorsement marks the first time an Africa-produced, real-time PCR test for mpox has received such recognition.
In a statement posted on X, the CDC praised the Moroccan test for its ability to quickly and effectively detect mpox DNA in blood, saliva, or tissue samples, highlighting the test’s “reliability and efficacy.” The endorsement aligns with the African Union’s strategic goal to bolster self-reliance in healthcare systems across Africa, enhancing preparedness and response capacities against disease threats.
The timing of the endorsement is critical, as Africa CDC declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency three months ago. Since the start of the year, Africa has reported more than 50,000 cases of mpox, along with approximately 1,100 fatalities. Central Africa accounts for over 85 percent of cases and nearly all recorded deaths. This newly endorsed test provides a timely boost to diagnostic capabilities amid the ongoing crisis.
The World Health Organization (WHO) also recently approved a diagnostic tool, the Alinity m MPXV assay, produced by Abbott Molecular Inc. This assay allows for mpox virus detection from swabs of skin lesions, enhancing global efforts to curb the spread of the disease.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection transmitted to humans through close contact with infected animals and humans. It causes symptoms including fever, muscle aches, and boil-like lesions, which can lead to severe complications or death.
Africa CDC’s endorsement of the Moroccan test demonstrates a commitment to local innovations in public health, aiming to strengthen Africa’s resilience against current and future disease threats.
