Pathogen genomic surveillance strategy launched

By Caren Mwaka

Government has launched the pathogen genomic surveillance strategy to enhance the study of genetic material of microorganisms that cause diseases.

The strategy which has been done in collaboration with various stakeholders is aimed at improving health security and pandemic preparedness in the country.

Health Minister ELIJAH MUCHIMA says the strategy which covers 2025 to 2029 positions the country as a regional leader in innovative approaches to tackle infectious diseases such as Cholera.

Ministry of Health Assistant Director Health Promotion and Community Health, KALANGWA KALANGWA made the remarks on behalf of Health Minister, Elijah Muchima.

And Zambia National Public Health Institute Director General ROMA CHILENGI said genomic surveillance will use real time data analysis to detect diseases such as Cholera which remain a high priority.

During the same event, the Zambia Genomics Surveillance consortium -ZGSC- signed a Memorandum of Understanding with various Heads of institutions in sequencing laboratories.

The MoU is meant to help provide mechanisms to facilitate rapid detection and response to mitigate public health threats anchored on an integrated one health approach.