Single Image Parasite Quantification (SIMPAQ): a New Diagnostic Technique using Microfluid-ics to Manage Soil-Transmitted Helminthiases towards Elimination

Soil-transmitted helminthiases are caused by a group of intestinal worms that affect the poorest communities of sub-Saharan Africa, children in particular. These diseases are highly endemic in Ethiopia, affecting more than 21% of the children. Through large-scale deworming programs, the World Health Organization (WHO) aims to reduce the prevalence of moderate to heavy intensity infections below 2% and to break transmission in humans in selected countries by 2030. To achieve these goals, WHO has launched a target product profile for new diagnostic techniques that can accurately detect moderate to low levels of infection intensity. In this project, a new diagnostic technique (SIMPAQ) using microfluidics will be further optimized and validated through field testing in and near Jimma in southwestern Ethiopia to meet the key requirements of WHO. The
local partner institution will be equipped and trained to further develop and use the new tool in large-scale deworming programmes to control of soil-transmitted helminthiases and subsequent surveillance programmes, in cooperation with the local health authorities.