The World Health Organization has recognized Mozambique’s Virology Laboratory at the National Institute of Health as the National Influenza Centre. This recognition is a testament to the laboratory’s dedication to monitoring and diagnosing influenza and respiratory viruses since 2013. The high-quality data produced by this laboratory is essential for effective decision-making in public health.
Recently, the World Health Organization recognized the Virology Laboratory of the National Institute of Health (INS) as Mozambique’s National Influenza Centre (NIC). This recognition reflects the laboratory’s significant contribution in monitoring and diagnosing influenza alongside other respiratory viruses, both nationally and globally. The certification follows a thorough evaluation of analytical processes and management by WHO experts, affirming the high quality and adequacy of the laboratory’s data for crucial decision-making processes.
Nédio Mabunda, Director of the Public Health Laboratories Division, highlighted that this distinction acknowledges the laboratory’s dedicated efforts in influenza surveillance since 2013. He emphasized that INS has successfully accredited 25 tests specifically at the laboratory level. Mabunda stated, “This certification is a major milestone for Mozambique and for the Virology Laboratory, as it has achieved international recognition,” reaffirming the laboratory’s commitment to maintaining high quality standards and adhering to globally acknowledged protocols.
Jorfélia Chilaúle, head of the Department of Virology, expressed satisfaction regarding the laboratory’s technical capabilities, marking its official contribution to the prevention and management of influenza and other respiratory viruses. Chilaúle outlined future objectives, including the introduction of advanced technologies for viral isolation and antigenicity analysis while extending technical support to network laboratories. Additionally, there are plans to produce external quality assessment panels for Portuguese-speaking nations and evaluate vaccine quality.
Almiro Tivane, the coordinator of the Surveillance of Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs), voiced appreciation for the achievement, noting that it significantly enhances the capacity of the system he oversees. He remarked on the potential for Mozambique to become a regional leader in ARI surveillance as a result of this important recognition. The INS Virology Laboratory has been actively diagnosing influenza and respiratory viruses since 2013 by implementing a sentinel surveillance system, which continuously monitors epidemiological trends and variations in virus circulation.
The formal acknowledgment of Mozambique’s Virology Laboratory as a National Influenza Centre by the World Health Organization underscores its commitment to high-quality surveillance and diagnostics for respiratory viruses. This achievement not only enhances the laboratory’s reputation but also positions Mozambique as a potential regional leader in health surveillance, promising continued advancements in viral diagnostics and public health interventions.
Original Source: clubofmozambique.com
