The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has approved the first mpox test developed on the continent. It was invented and researched in Morocco, according to a press release by the African regulator.
"The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through its Diagnostic Advisory Committee (DAC) has recommended the first locally manufactured Real-Time PCR test for mpox from Morocco. Africa CDC’s approval underscores the test’s reliability and efficacy, potentially boosting Morocco’s role in global health initiatives," the Africa CDC said.
The organization added, "This major milestone is in line with the African Union’s continental effort to strengthen the self-sufficiency of African public health systems towards enhancing the continent’s efficiency in preparedness and response to disease threats."
Earlier, the Africa CDC announced that the number of mpox infections in Africa has increased by 500% compared to last year. About 50,000 cases of the viral infection have been recorded in 19 countries across the continent, while the number of deaths has totaled 1,048.