Fondation Mérieux urges unified viral threat approach

Alain Mérieux, president of Fondation Mérieux, stated on November 3 in Brazzaville that a unified approach is needed to combat viral threats. He emphasized that African countries must open borders to face viruses that do not respect them, advocating for an interconnected and global response involving countries, doctors, veterinarians, and environmental specialists.

Mérieux explained that the response to epidemics can no longer be isolated, promoting the 'One Health' concept championed by Professor Ntoumi. Fondation Mérieux, active in 15 countries facing security or health crises, intends to serve Congo's needs, acknowledging the globalization of infection risks and the need for joint responses from foundations, laboratories like Institut Pasteur, and various nations, citing Ebola and monkeypox as lessons.

The Fondation Mérieux president assured that the Congolese government is open to collaboration and praised local expertise, particularly Professor Francine Ntoumi, for her ability to train scientists. He expressed confidence in Congo's scientific community, which is forming a school of doctors and biologists to meet these needs, concluding that a seven-year collaboration has been tacitly renewed.

Why it mattersThe president of Fondation Mérieux met with Congo's minister of scientific research to discuss a unified approach to viral threats, highlighting the need for collaboration between countries and specialists.

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