Scientists call for early preparedness against epidemics

Oct 11, 2024

Many outbreaks occur in Africa, driven by factors such as conflict, displacement, rich biodiversity that fosters human-wildlife interaction, and weak public health systems.

Dr Monica Musenero (Seated 3rd R), the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, Justine Lumumba (Seated 3rd L), the Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Bruce Kirenga, ICER Chair and Director of the Makerere University Lung Institute (C) and ICER members after closing a symposium at Speke Resort Munyonyo. (Credit: Violet Nabatanzi)

Violet Nabatanzi
Journalist @New Vision

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Scientists have called for the need for early preparedness, highlighting that epidemics can strike unexpectedly. 

They emphasized that concerted efforts, particularly in research, are crucial to addressing epidemics effectively.

Many outbreaks occur in Africa, driven by factors such as conflict, displacement, rich biodiversity that fosters human-wildlife interaction, and weak public health systems.

Speaking at the Interdisciplinary Consortium for Epidemics Research (ICER) symposium on Mpox in East and Central Africa, held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Dr. Bruce Kirenga, ICER Chair and Director of the Makerere University Lung Institute, noted that the Consortium represents a step forward in improving cross-border preparedness, coordination, and strengthening regional surveillance.

ICER serves as an umbrella body uniting researchers, scientists, policymakers, and Mpox responders from affected countries in East and Central Africa.

These regions are particularly vulnerable to outbreaks due to their proximity to the flora and fauna-rich Congo Basin and Lake Victoria Basin.

Dr Monica Musenero, the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation, expressed concern that people are not fully recognizing the threat posed by Mpox.

She remarked, "Mpox has been an issue in the Democratic Republic of Congo for a long time. We should not have reached where we are. The issue is to define the actual problem and find solutions."

She also shared her experience in dealing with epidemics, saying, "I have been involved in managing epidemics for a long time, but epidemic preparedness is often an unfunded priority. Even when funding comes, it usually arrives too late that your findings are not going to impact on the outbreak,’’

Justine Lumumba, the Minister for General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister, read a speech on behalf of Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja at the symposium's closing.

She stressed the importance of finding solutions to Africa’s problems internally, rather than relying on external aid.

Lumumba assured that the government is committed to supporting initiatives like the Interdisciplinary Consortium for Epidemics Research, as such efforts are highly impactful in communities.

She also stated that Uganda is in the process of revising its National Action Plan for Health Security to align with World Health Organization targets.

However, she emphasized that the country would need solid evidence to improve its capacity to predict, detect, and respond to health emergencies effectively.

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