ZIMBABWE—Zimbabwe has inaugurated a state-of-the-art laboratory dedicated to analyzing polio samples collected through environmental surveillance (ES), marking a significant milestone in the country’s public health efforts.
Previously, these samples were sent to South Africa for testing, resulting in a turnaround time of approximately 21 days.
However, the establishment of this local facility will significantly reduce the time required for sample analysis and response.
The newly renovated laboratory, supported financially and technically by the World Health Organization (WHO), is equipped with advanced technology and staffed by highly trained personnel.
WHO also facilitated training for 10 laboratory scientists, enabling them to operate the facility and conduct environmental sample testing on-site.
This development is expected to enhance Zimbabwe’s ability to detect and respond to potential polio outbreaks swiftly.
The WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) played a key role in this initiative by identifying three African Polio Laboratory Network experts to provide specialized training in WHO-recommended ES testing methods for poliovirus.
The experts included Shelina Moonsamy, the Head of the Polio Laboratory at the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) in Johannesburg, South Africa, James Peter Eliku, an ES Technical Expert from the Uganda Virus Research Institute in Entebbe, Uganda, and Thabo Mashupye, an ES Technical Expert from NICD.
Their expertise was instrumental in preparing the team at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), where the laboratory is located.
During the laboratory’s launch, Mr. Paradzayi Chibukira, the Technical Supervisor at the Zimbabwe National Virology Polio Laboratory at UZ, emphasized the facility’s importance in safeguarding Zimbabweans’ health.
He noted that by significantly reducing the turnaround time for polio test results, the laboratory would enable more effective implementation of prevention and control measures, helping prevent polio reintroduction into the country.
Environmental surveillance for polio, which involves collecting and analysing sewage and other environmental samples to detect the presence of the poliovirus, is a crucial part of global efforts to eradicate the disease.
This method provides a broader perspective on potential outbreaks and complements traditional surveillance systems, such as the Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) surveillance system.
Polio, a highly contagious viral disease, can cause paralysis, particularly in children.
Although Zimbabwe has been polio-free for many years, the risk of reintroduction persists, especially as the global polio eradication efforts continue.
In 2023, Zimbabwe launched its environmental surveillance program, establishing surveillance sites in Harare and Chitungwiza, as part of a broader strategy to strengthen disease monitoring and improve response capabilities.
The introduction of ES marked a significant step in the country’s commitment to enhancing its public health infrastructure.
By 2024, the program had expanded to other major cities, including Bulawayo, Gweru, and Victoria Falls, further demonstrating Zimbabwe’s proactive approach to public health and disease prevention.
Mr. Kenneth Chindedza, WHO Zimbabwe’s Technical Officer for Logistics and Supply Chain, praised Zimbabwe’s decision to establish the polio surveillance laboratory.
He stated that it would not only improve the country’s ability to detect poliovirus in the environment but also contribute to the overall strengthening of public health systems.
He also highlighted that this development reflects Zimbabwe’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding its population from the threat of polio and other infectious diseases.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE
