Today, Ifakara Health Institute convened with stakeholders at its Kingani Offices in Bagamoyo to introduce and discuss its latest project which aims to combat the prevalence of Rift Valley Fever (RVF), along with its associated activities at the district level before advancing to the community level phase.

The “RVF DDVax Project,” will last four years and is being implemented by Ifakara across various study sites in Tanzania from 2023 until 2027.

The primary objective of the project is is aim to characterize patterns of circulating RVF among human, livestock and vectors using a One Health approach in preparation of a Rift Valley Fever (RVF) vaccine candidate evaluation against disease in in humans.This ambitious undertaking aims to address a critical need in healthcare by providing a proactive solution to combat the prevalence of Rift Valley Fever.

The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including the Councils Health Management Team (CHMT), staff members from the District Medical Officer’s office, personnel from the District Veterinary Office, and representatives from Community Development from Bagamoyo and Chalinze. Their collective presence underscored the significance of collaborative efforts in tackling public health challenges.

In addition to introducing the project, the gathering served as an opportunity to solicit cooperation from stakeholders at the district level. The success of the RVF Project hinges on the active involvement and support of all parties involved, emphasizing the importance of intergration action towards its initiation and implementation.

About Rift Valley Fever

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an acute viral hemorrhagic fever that is most commonly seen in domesticated animals (such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats, and camels) and can cause illness in human. The disease is caused by Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV), a member of the genus Phlebovirus in the order Bunyavirales. To learn more about the disease, click here