APDC Project (2024- 2025)
The Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition (APDC) is a global scientific and public health partnership focused on strengthening early detection and rapid response to emerging infectious disease threats. In Rwanda, the project is dedicated to addressing Acute Undifferentiated Febrile Illnesses (AUFI)—a major health challenge in low-resource settings where diseases present with similar symptoms but often lack clear diagnosis. These illnesses, many of which are zoonotic, carry high risks of morbidity, mortality, and economic burden, particularly in regions with frequent human-animal interaction and porous borders with outbreak-prone countries.
The project aims to determine the causes (etiology) of AUFI cases through advanced diagnostic methods and pathogen sequencing, while strengthening Rwanda’s surveillance systems, laboratory capacity, and outbreak response capabilities. By building local expertise in epidemiology, virology, and public health response, the initiative will improve the country’s ability to detect and contain emerging threats within the 7-1-7 global target (detect within 7 days, report within 1 day, respond within 7 days).
Beyond national benefits, the project positions Rwanda as a regional hub for pandemic preparedness in East Central Africa, fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity strengthening with neighboring countries. This proactive approach not only safeguards Rwandans but also contributes significantly to global health security, reducing the risk of future pandemics.