In a significant advancement for public health, Zimbabwe has inaugurated a dedicated laboratory aimed at analyzing polio samples collected through environmental surveillance (ES). This move eliminates the need to send samples to South Africa for testing, which previously resulted in a lengthy turnaround time of approximately 21 days.
The newly renovated laboratory, supported by the World Health Organization (WHO), is outfitted with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by highly trained personnel. To bolster local capabilities, WHO has also trained ten laboratory scientists to conduct testing on environmental samples within the country. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce the time needed for detecting potential polio outbreaks, enhancing response measures.
Three experts from the African Polio Laboratory network have been identified by the WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO) to provide training at the University of Zimbabwe (UZ), where the laboratory is located. The training team includes Shelina Moonsamy, Team Lead and Head of the Polio Laboratory at NICD in Johannesburg, South Africa; James Peter Eliku, an ES Technical Expert from the Uganda Virus Research Institute; and Thabo Mashupye, also an ES Technical Expert from NICD.
Mr. Paradzayi Chibukira, Technical Supervisor at the Zimbabwe National Virology Polio Laboratory at UZ, stated, “The establishment of this laboratory is a major milestone in our efforts to safeguard the health of Zimbabweans. By reducing the turnaround time for laboratory results, we can more effectively implement prevention and control measures to prevent the reintroduction of polio into our country.”
Environmental surveillance is a critical component of global initiatives to monitor and eradicate polio. This method involves collecting and analyzing sewage and other environmental samples to detect the presence of poliovirus, providing an indicator of its circulation in the community. It complements traditional surveillance through the Acute Flaccid Paralysis (AFP) system, offering a broader view of potential outbreaks.
Despite being polio-free for many years, Zimbabwe remains vigilant due to the ongoing global eradication efforts. In 2023, the country launched its environmental surveillance program, initially focusing on sites in Harare and Chitungwiza. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to strengthen disease monitoring and improve response capabilities. The program has since expanded to include additional sites in major cities such as Bulawayo, Gweru, and Victoria Falls in 2024, reflecting Zimbabwe’s proactive stance on public health.
“We fully support Zimbabwe’s decision to set up the laboratory for polio surveillance,” said Mr. Kenneth Chindedza, WHO Zimbabwe Technical Officer for Logistics and Supply Chain. “This development not only enhances the country’s capacity for timely and accurate detection of poliovirus in the environment but also strengthens the overall public health infrastructure.”