Nigeria: LuxOR study to improve diagnosis of Lassa fever
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As part of a field validation study carried out in Abakaliki, Nigeria, the Luxembourg Opperation Research Unit (LuxOR) evaluated the ReLASV Pan-Lassa rapid diagnostic test (RDT) against the molecular PCR test for the diagnosis of Lassa fever.
The LuxOR study revealed that the RDT could only detect 4-10% of cases with certainty, making it unsuitable for use in current conditions.
Dr. Temmy Sunyoto, Senior Operational Research Advisor:
MSF’s presence in Abakaliki has given us the opportunity to close critical knowledge gaps around Lassa fever. Because the disease still lacks dependable diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines, we have focused on strengthening existing capacity through rigorous operational research. Over the years, we have worked to reinforce that capacity through several key studies supported by LuxOR.
We completed the first field validation of a novel rapid diagnostic test, are now finalising a study on predictors of mortality, and have examined risk perception of Lassa fever among both health-care workers and the wider community. These milestones are the direct fruits of our robust partnership with AE-FUTHA and other committed collaborators.
Generating solid evidence is indispensable to controlling Lassa fever, and operational research will remain a cornerstone of that mission. Together, we are turning science into better care—and a safer future for those most at risk.”
‘We are no longer afraid’: MSF hands over Lassa fever care in Ebonyi State
After seven years of critical support from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), local health authorities in Ebonyi State are now well equipped to take on Lassa fever with improved infrastructure, training, and resilience—saving lives and restoring confidence in the healthcare system.
