#Egypt #Cairo #Avian Influenza #Alveo Technologies #Global Animal Health

Alveo Technologies Collaborates with Global Animal Health for Avian Influenza Surveillance in Egypt

In an innovative move to bolster poultry health, Alveo Technologies has partnered with Global Animal Health (GAH) to roll out a national-scale molecular surveillance program for avian influenza across Egypt. This partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing disease monitoring within a crucial sector of the country’s economy.

The initiative features the introduction of the Alveo Sense™ Poultry Avian Influenza Test, which employs real-time, on-site molecular diagnostics to facilitate rapid testing of avian influenza. The first phase of this deployment includes 1,000 Alveo Sense Analyzers and 10,000 test cartridges, making it possible to provide accessible and immediate testing solutions to poultry farmers nationwide.

Strategic Importance of the Initiative

Egypt stands as the first nation to implement the Alveo Sense system at such a large scale, setting a standard for effective disease monitoring on a national level. The program aims to cover approximately 10% of farms located along major migratory bird routes, thereby forming a robust defense against potential outbreaks.

Shaun Holt, the CEO of Alveo Technologies, stated, “Avian influenza is a global challenge, and by placing advanced molecular testing directly in the hands of farmers and veterinarians, we can shift from a reactive to a proactive stance in surveillance and intervention.” This shift entails significant changes in how poultry health threats are managed, moving towards a more systematic and data-driven approach.

Transformative Solutions for Poultry Industry

As avian influenza poses increasing threats to global poultry production, the partnership's efforts to enable rapid testing are crucial. Previous outbreaks have seen the culling of millions of birds and significant economic losses, showcasing the urgent need for effective surveillance systems. Traditional testing methods often involve lengthy wait times for results, which can take three to five days, while the virus can spread quickly within that timeframe. The Alveo Sense platform, however, offers results in approximately 45 minutes right at the farm, enabling quicker decision-making and containment actions.

The integration of the Alveo Sense system provides precise molecular diagnostics that can identify various strains of avian influenza. During pilot tests, this testing approach facilitated the initiation of containment measures days earlier than conventional methods, minimizing the risk of secondary infections and protecting the health of farm employees. As a result, significant cost savings and public health benefits are anticipated.

Enhancing Data Management in Animal Health

An essential aspect of this initiative is the system’s ability to wirelessly transmit test results along with time-stamped and geotagged data. This feature equips veterinarians and regulatory authorities with near real-time insights into disease threats, allowing for timely interventions and better coordination among stakeholders. This collaboration between Alveo and GAH introduces a level of efficiency and reliability that has previously been unattainable in the industry.

Future Plans and Regional Expansion

The introduction of this advanced testing system is not just a victory for Egypt; it also lays the groundwork for extending these capabilities across the Middle East and North Africa. As Alveo’s system continues to gain traction, it addresses systemic challenges posed by high poultry production densities, migratory bird movement, and cross-border trading.

Currently, the Alveo Sense is accessible in 32 countries, operating in diverse environments across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. By enabling a decentralized approach to avian influenza testing, Alveo aims to promote better health outcomes for both animal and human populations, stabilizing food production, and maintaining consistent supply chains.

Overall, the partnership between Alveo Technologies and Global Animal Health represents a pioneering effort to enhance poultry industry resilience through innovative surveillance strategies, ensuring food security and better health outcomes in Egypt and beyond.