Tag: Senegal

  • Combination of Biomarker Detection and Metagenomic Sequencing for Viral Surveillance in Kedougou, Eastern Senegal

    Combination of Biomarker Detection and Metagenomic Sequencing for Viral Surveillance in Kedougou, Eastern Senegal

    Senegal | Viral infections | Diagnostics innovation

    The Institut Pasteur de Dakar is advancing viral surveillance in Kedougou through this innovation which combines biomarker detection with metagenomic sequencing. This project aims to enhance the detection of viral infections while optimizing resource use through better sample selection. By implementing a rapid diagnostic test focused on specific viral markers, the initiative strives to improve public health interventions and reduce the impact of viral outbreaks in the region. Training healthcare workers on the use of these advanced diagnostics will ensure timely identification of viral infections and facilitate appropriate responses.

  • Artificial Intelligence-Based Outbreak Early Warning System for Rift Valley Fever Detection (AIRFARE-EWS)

    Artificial Intelligence-Based Outbreak Early Warning System for Rift Valley Fever Detection (AIRFARE-EWS)

    Senegal | Infectious diseases | Vector-borne disease threats


    The Université Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis is developing the AIRFARE-EWS, an artificial intelligence-powered early warning system for detecting Rift Valley Fever (RVF) outbreaks. By integrating diverse data sources—including environmental, meteorological, and livestock health information—the system will enhance the capacity for early detection and timely response to RVF threats. Machine learning algorithms will analyze trends and patterns to predict outbreaks before they occur. The project also includes the development of a mobile application for monitoring disease spread, providing farmers and healthcare workers with real-time alerts, ultimately aiming to safeguard both human and animal health.

  • Metagenomic Wastewater Surveillance for Pathogen Detection and Outbreak Prevention

    Metagenomic Wastewater Surveillance for Pathogen Detection and Outbreak Prevention

    Senegal | Environmental health | Pathogen detection


    The Institut Fondamental d’Afrique Noire is pioneering metagenomic wastewater surveillance to detect pathogens and prevent outbreaks in Senegal. By analyzing environmental samples, including wastewater and surface water, this innovative approach complements traditional clinical surveillance. It allows for real-time monitoring of public health threats by identifying pathogens circulating in the community. The project aims to map pathogen distributions and provide critical insights into circulating diseases, enhancing the country’s ability to respond proactively to potential outbreaks. Collaboration with local health authorities will be key to integrating findings into public health policy and practices.

  • Development of a Rapid Molecular Detection Test for Measles Virus Diagnosis

    Development of a Rapid Molecular Detection Test for Measles Virus Diagnosis

    Senegal | Infectious diseases | Diagnostics innovation

    At the Institut Pasteur de Dakar, the project team are developing a rapid molecular diagnostic test for measles on lateral flow strips and in cassette form, using CRISPR technology, previously used mainly in the field of genome editing. The end product will enable rapid, highly sensitive diagnosis, and could potentially offer a cheaper alternative to current diagnostic methods in the future. This will significantly boost the level of measles virus surveillance, particularly in low-resource environments. The team plans to validate the test across various healthcare settings, ensuring its accessibility and reliability, and will conduct training for healthcare professionals to facilitate prompt and accurate diagnoses.

Contact us:
grandchallenges.senegal@pasteur.sn