Introduction:
In an era marked by the increasing prevalence of infectious disease outbreaks, the role of academic institutions in fostering national and global health security has never been more crucial. The Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University in Uganda is a testament to this, having made significant strides in strengthening national biosecurity through its Global Health Security program. This article reflects on an original paper (Support for the response to COVID-19 in Uganda: contribution of the global health security program at Makerere University's Infectious Diseases Institute by Mohammed Lamorde et al.). It parallels the Biological Weapons Convention (BWC) implementation and the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) activities undertaken by the IDI.
- Biosafety and Biosecurity: Building Foundations for National Security
The IDI has been instrumental in enhancing biosafety and biosecurity at both national and subnational levels. The institute has laid a strong foundation for detecting and managing biological threats by scaling microbiology capabilities across laboratories and harmonizing bio risk management curriculum. This aligns with the BWC's objectives of preventing the development and misuse of biological agents, thereby contributing to the fortification of national biosecurity.
Parallel: The BWC emphasizes the secure handling and responsible management of biological agents to prevent misuse. The IDI's initiatives in training laboratory staff and supporting the establishing of the Biosafety and Biosecurity Association of Uganda resonate with these principles, showcasing a practical implementation of BWC guidelines through GHSA activities.
- Enhanced Surveillance and Reporting: A Pillar of Prevention and Detection
The IDI's efforts to integrate animal samples into the national sample transport system and fortify electronic disease surveillance have been pivotal. These advancements contribute to the timely detection and reporting of outbreaks and exemplify the collaborative spirit encouraged by the BWC for information sharing among member states.
Parallel: The BWC underscores the importance of international cooperation and information sharing to combat biological threats. The IDI's work enhancing surveillance and reporting systems mirror this, demonstrating how GHSA activities can facilitate BWC implementation by fostering collaboration and transparency.
- Infection Prevention and Control: Managing Outbreaks and Aligning with BWC Objectives
The development of infection prevention control measures, establishment of isolation units, and clinical research capabilities by the IDI have been crucial in managing outbreaks of diseases like Ebola and Marburg viruses. These efforts align with the BWC's objectives of preparing for and responding to the deliberate use of biological agents.
Parallel: The BWC advocates for preparedness and response to biological threats, whether natural or deliberate. The IDI's infection prevention and control initiatives showcase how GHSA activities can be aligned with BWC objectives to enhance national capacities for managing outbreaks.
- Leveraging Capacities for COVID-19: A Testament to Adaptability
The IDI's adaptive response to the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the versatility and applicability of BWC principles in addressing emerging biological threats. The institute played a crucial role in developing legal instruments, facilitating training, enhancing laboratory capacities, and strengthening national biosecurity.
Parallel: The BWC calls for adaptability and resilience in the face of emerging biological threats. The IDI's contributions to COVID-19 preparedness and response illustrate how GHSA activities can be leveraged to meet the challenges posed by new pathogens and align with BWC guidelines.
Conclusion:
The Infectious Diseases Institute at Makerere University is a beacon of how academic institutions can significantly strengthen national biosecurity. By drawing parallels between the BWC implementation and the GHSA activities undertaken by the IDI, we gain insights into the practical application of international biosecurity norms at the national level. The multifaceted approach adopted by the IDI addresses biological threats and fosters a culture of compliance with international biosecurity norms, thereby enhancing the implementation of the Biological Weapons Convention.