In response to the escalating Mpox epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the threat of cross-border transmission, the Global Health European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership 3 (Global Health EDCTP3) has announced an emergency funding initiative amounting to €5 million. This strategic move aims to bolster research and innovation to combat the outbreak effectively.
The funding, revealed on May 15, represents a concerted effort to enhance understanding of Mpox, develop robust prevention and management strategies, and strengthen public health responses both regionally and continentally. Projects focusing on vaccine and therapeutic development, surveillance strategies, rapid diagnostics, and epidemiological studies will be prioritized due to the urgency of the situation.
Mpox, which manifests through symptoms such as rash, fever, and, in severe cases, fatalities, has drawn significant attention since its outbreak in 2022. While traditionally confined to central and west African countries, the recent surge has led to tens of thousands of cases being reported beyond these regions, necessitating immediate action.
The DRC Ministry of Health's declaration of a public health emergency underscores the critical need for swift mobilization to address the crisis at both national and regional levels.
Under this emergency funding initiative, each project will receive an estimated €1.25 million, with a strong emphasis on rapid research deployment. Notably, grants will prioritize proposals that commit to prompt data-sharing, ensuring research findings are quickly applied in clinical settings.
The call for proposals remains open until May 29, providing a two-week window for submissions. This initiative aligns with the objectives outlined in the Global Health EDCTP3 Work Programme 2024, which earmarks funds for addressing public health emergencies.
The European Union's delegation to the African Union has expressed its support for this initiative, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling health crises of this magnitude.
With the application deadline fast approaching, stakeholders from the research and public health sectors are urged to mobilize swiftly, leveraging this emergency funding to drive impactful research and interventions in the fight against Mpox.
Article by Jed Mwangi
Photo/Health Policy Watch
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