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Angola receives more than 150 test kits from WHO, USAID to tackle Mpox
Angola receives more than 150 test kits from WHO, USAID to tackle Mpox
By: Nii Ammui Fio | 2 mins read
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have jointly delivered over 150 molecular test kits to Angola to strengthen its response to the ongoing Mpox outbreak.
This latest intervention is part of a broader effort to equip the country with the tools needed to improve disease detection and containment.
The handover of the test kits took place at Angola's National Institute for Health Research (INIS), where health officials emphasized the significance of the donation in boosting the nation’s diagnostic capacity. The test kits, which include advanced molecular tools like Cepheid GeneXpert cartridges, are expected to significantly reduce testing time, enabling health workers to identify Mpox cases faster and implement timely interventions.
Dr. Joana Paula da Paixão, Deputy Director of INIS, lauded the initiative, stating that the international collaboration reflects a shared commitment to tackling emerging health threats in Angola. “The delivery of these test kits marks a critical step in our preparedness efforts. Faster diagnostics mean we can respond quickly and prevent further spread,” she remarked.
Unlike traditional RT-PCR systems, which take several hours to process results, the Cepheid GeneXpert technology can deliver outcomes within one hour, making it ideal for Angola’s decentralized health facilities. The test kits will be distributed across multiple regions to ensure broader access and reduce the burden on centralized laboratories.
The support from WHO and USAID is part of a coordinated global response to assist Angola in managing Mpox cases. Beyond test kits, international partners such as the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are providing technical expertise and training to enhance laboratory efficiency and case management systems.
This multi-stakeholder partnership aims to strengthen Angola’s overall health infrastructure, ensuring the country is better prepared for future outbreaks. Health authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to leveraging these resources to improve early detection, contain infections, and safeguard public health nationwide.
With over 150 test kits now available, Angola is set to make significant strides in its fight against Mpox, reflecting the collective effort to protect vulnerable populations and reinforce the nation’s healthcare resilience.
