The Scientific Advisory Board has praised the PREPARE4VBD project as a model example of collaboration between the Global North and Global South. The project has developed several useful scientific results, tools, and guidelines that are expected to have significant impacts soon or in the future. As the project enters its final phase, efforts are being ramped up to share these results and tools with all relevant stakeholders, not just through scientific publications but also through broader outreach. This will culminate in a major meeting and outreach event in Uganda in May 2025, hosted by the Ministry of Health in Uganda, where a comprehensive overview of the project’s results will be presented to stakeholders, including policymakers. Preparations for this event are already underway, with discussions on the best formats and materials to use, such as policy briefs and video materials.
Although it is still early to see the full impact on socio-economics and policy, significant progress has already been made. The project has compiled extensive data on disease occurrences of its target diseases and their vector species, which includes the creation of a Global Vector Database (GVD) for centralizing vector data and mapping disease vectors across Africa. This has already improved knowledge and will help develop stronger surveillance systems. The project has also created new maps to assess the risk of spread of diseases and their vectors under climate change scenarios. An unexpected discovery of an Ixodes tick species in Kenya, known mainly from Europe and previously only found on migratory birds, could have significant implications for disease control in the region. Further studies are needed to understand this better.
To improve rapid on-site detection of disease vectors, the project has developed three new diagnostic tools. These include an automated microscope device for detecting snail-borne infections, a quick PCR test for pathogens in livestock blood and tick fluids, and an environmental DNA method for detecting liver fluke parasites in environmental samples. These tools have been demonstrated to partners and stakeholders, with further dissemination expected via webinars and at the final meetings.
The project aims to improve the prevention and control of target diseases. Early efforts in Uganda and Tanzania have already guided strategies to combat fascioliasis, a disease affecting both humans and livestock. These strategies include health education campaigns, improved access to clean water, distribution of treatment drugs, and strengthened veterinary services. The project has also led to the first detection of liver fluke infections in humans in Uganda, highlighting the need for better prevention and control policies.
The tools and models developed by the project are cost-effective and can detect multiple species in one sample, which can be preserved on-site. This will help target resources more effectively for controlling diseases and vectors in the long run.
