IGAD backs One Health drive to detect animal disease outbreaks before they reach humans
Originally published by News – Capital FM — Read the original article →
NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 19 — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is stepping up regional efforts to detect animal disease outbreaks before they spread to humans, through a new initiative to strengthen veterinary laboratories and improve cross-border health surveillance across 11 African countries.
The programme seeks to build a network of trained laboratory auditors and mentors to improve diagnostic standards, identify gaps in veterinary facilities and support laboratories working towards accreditation.
Implemented under the Health Emergency Preparedness and Response Programme, with support from the World Bank, the initiative brings together IGAD and the East, Central and Southern Africa Health Community (ECSA-HC) to strengthen regional preparedness through the One Health approach, which links human, animal and environmental health.