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International Epidemic Preparedness Day

27 December 2024

A reflection on diagnostics and readiness

December 27th marks International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, a day to spotlight the importance of readiness in the face of outbreaks. As the world continues to grapple with health threats, both known and emerging, we at FIND are committed to advancing diagnostic tools to safeguard global health.

Outbreaks can escalate rapidly without early detection and monitoring. That’s why diagnostics play a critical role. In 2024, we made strides to enhance diagnostic preparedness for diseases prone to outbreaks, ensuring we’re better equipped for the future. Here’s a look at what we’ve achieved this year and the path ahead.

Preparedness is a collective effort

This year has shown us the immense potential of collaboration, but the work isn’t done. From diagnostics to funding, every step we take together brings us closer to a safer, healthier world.

On this International Day of Epidemic Preparedness, let’s reaffirm our commitment to strengthening global health systems—because when it comes to outbreaks, readiness saves lives.

Our 2024 Highlights

1. The 100 Days Mission Roadmap

In collaboration with the IPP Secretariat, we unveiled a roadmap to ensure diagnostic preparedness within the first 100 days of the next outbreak. This ambitious plan calls for a $1 billion investment across four key pillars to strengthen diagnostic systems worldwide.

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FIN Pathogen diagnostic readiness index (PDxRI)

2. The Diagnostic Readiness Index (PDxRI)

This year, we launched the PDxRI, a tool that provides a sobering insight: while SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics are widely available, most countries are underprepared for other outbreak-prone diseases.

Explore the index

3. Mapping diagnostic landscapes

Our Dx Landscapes Test Directory now includes over 4,200 assays for 11 pathogens such as mpox, cholera, yellow fever, and Nipah. This comprehensive resource supports informed decision-making for diagnostic readiness.

Explore the directory

4. Mpox diagnostic advances

With the rise of Mpox, we quickly developed a scenario-based demand forecast model and presented it to WHO. Further, we conducted test evaluations for mpox point-of-care diagnostics in partnership with researchers in the UK and DRC. In an ongoing effort, we are collaborating with WHO for further test evaluations in the DRC.

Mpox Day 100: Read the full report

5. Progress against Lassa fever

In partnership with CEPI, we updated the diagnostic landscape for Lassa fever. We successfully established a lab and launched a three-year viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) strategy in Liberia with UNC, AFENET, and NPHIL. And we are continuing work drafting Target Product Profiles (TPPs) for Lassa and Nipah diagnostics with a focus on cost-saving strategies.

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Learn more about
our programme

Pandemic Threats Programme 100 Days Mission