A Training on qPCR Detection is Underway
The Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) has launched a two-week intensive training on qPCR detection of Onchocerca volvulus in blackflies at the Onchocerciasis Molecular Laboratory at EPHI. The training runs untill May 24, 2026.
EPHI’s Director General Dr. Mesay Hailu emphasized that strengthening laboratory and molecular diagnostic capacity supports Ethiopia’s onchocerciasis elimination efforts and also expressed his appreciation for the support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and The Carter Center Ethiopia.
Dr. Geremew Tassew, EPHI’s Malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases Research Directorate Director stated that the training is expected to strengthen Ethiopia’s onchocerciasis elimination program through molecular diagnostic techniques. And he noted that the training is intended as a Training of Trainers (TOT) approach, with plans to cascade the skills gained to regional public health institutes and laboratories across Ethiopia. Dr. Geremew also highlighted the role of regional laboratories in producing high-quality data used for national disease elimination programs and public health decisions.
The launching event of the training was attended by EPHI’s senior leadership and representatives from the headquarters of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the headquarters of The Carter Center and The Carter Center Ethiopia. And in addition to EPHI’s laboratory and research professionals, others from the Federal Ministry Health of Ethiopia, Armauer Hansen Research Institute and The Carter Center Ethiopia are participating.
The training covers advanced laboratory and reporting activities, including blackfly processing, DNA extraction, qPCR assays, data analysis, and reporting systemsfor surveillance of onchocerciasis transmission.