Research Keyword: sub-Saharan Africa

Survey of clinical microbiology and infectious disease testing capabilities among institutions in Africa

This study surveyed 131 medical laboratories across 28 African countries to understand what types of infectious disease testing they can perform. Researchers found that while most labs can test for parasites and bacteria, fewer can perform tests for viruses (except HIV) or fungi. The study identified that HIV testing is widely available, but better access to other viral and fungal disease testing is needed to improve healthcare and prepare for future disease outbreaks.

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Acceptability of Vegetable Fortified Ugali in Sub-Saharan Africa

Researchers tested adding freeze-dried vegetables to ugali, a staple corn porridge eaten by millions in Africa, to boost nutrition. Chinese onion stalk was the clear winner—it actually tasted better than plain ugali and provided extra vitamins and fiber. Carrot and bok choy also worked well, making nutrient-enriched ugali a practical solution for improving health in areas where nutritious side dishes are hard to find.

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Epidemiological Profile of Otomycosis at the Peace Hospital of Ziguinchor (Senegal)

This study examined fungal ear infections in a hospital in Senegal and found that about 85% of suspected cases were actually caused by fungi. The most common fungi were Aspergillus and Candida species. The research shows that itching was the main symptom associated with fungal ear infections, and that proper diagnosis is important to avoid unnecessary antibiotic use and provide better treatment.

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Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis in diabetic ketoacidosis: A classic clinical presentation still unknown in Senegal

A young woman in Senegal with uncontrolled diabetes developed a serious fungal infection affecting her eye and brain caused by Rhizopus oryzae. Despite showing classic warning signs like swelling and tissue death, the infection was not diagnosed quickly enough, and the necessary antifungal medication (amphotericin B) was not available, resulting in her death within three days. This case highlights how invasive fungal infections are underrecognized and undertreated in Africa due to limited laboratory capacity and drug availability.

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