The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) endorsed Morocco’s mpox test on Thursday, marking a major milestone for African health innovation.
The real-time PCR test swiftly detects mpox DNA in blood, saliva, or tissue samples, enhancing Africa’s ability to combat the virus independently.
Africa CDC’s approval of the test aligns with the African Union’s push for greater self-sufficiency in health responses.
The announcement follows the World Health Organization’s recent approval of a separate mpox test by Abbott Molecular Inc.
Africa has reported over 50,000 cases and 1,100 deaths this year, with Central Africa seeing the majority of cases.
The endorsement of Morocco’s test reflects Africa’s ongoing commitment to stronger public health defenses.
