DOD entomological research and public health contributions to the African continent

The Department of Defense entomologists have had a presence on the African continent for over 60 years in Egypt and 40 years in Kenya serving in infectious disease focused research laboratories. The primary mission of the DOD overseas laboratories is to conduct research on infectious diseases endemic to their respective geographic regions which could adversely impact on the health of deployed military forces. A secondary and more strategic mission is to improve overall health in host countries. From a security perspective, healthier populations are more productive leading to stronger economies and ultimately more stable governments. Over the years, the DOD laboratories have made significant contributions in a number of areas including: malaria, HIV, TB, influenza, enteric disease, sexually transmitted infections, arthropod-borne disease, epidemiology, and emerging infectious diseases. Currently, DOD scientists have ongoing projects in 17 African countries. Major focus areas include the President’s Malaria Initiative, The President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, and surveillance for leishmaniasis, influenza, enteric pathogens, and emerging infections. Outbreak response and investigation is another area where DOD entomologists have played a significant role, lending their expertise in the investigation of outbreaks across the continent of yellow fever, Rift Valley fever, West Nile fever, Chikungunya, Ebola, and Congo-Crimean hemorrhagic fever. The DOD has also contributed to infrastructure development in Africa, particularly in increasing laboratory capabilities. Over the past 3 years, new laboratory facilities have been dedicated in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Cameroon to enhance surveillance of emerging infectious diseases. Through DOD programs, hundreds of African scientists have received training from technician to PhD level, building scientific capacity for the partner nations. With the establishment of US Africa Command, DOD entomologists will have a continuing role in addressing security cooperation objectives.