Call for proposals for the development of new diagnostic tests for vector-borne diseases (HERA)

This action is expected to:

• Improve diagnostic capabilities that will lead to earlier detection of VBDs, enablingprompt treatment initiation and reducing disease transmission.
• Develop new diagnostic tests to stimulate research and innovation in the field of VBDs.
• Support global health initiatives focused on attaining goals for international health security.

This action aims to:

• Enhance disease detection, reduce misdiagnoses, and improve patient outcomes by broadening the diagnostic toolkit, with a focus on rapid tests.
• Advance early detection of VBDs through the development of novel diagnostic tests that identify these diseases at an early stage, enabling timely treatment and control.
• Increasing the accuracy and specificity of existing diagnostic assays to better identify VBD pathogens, thus minimising misdiagnoses.

The activities conducted under this action will focus on supporting late-stage development of medical devices, bringing them to (near-) market; improvement of existing products in terms of accessibility, affordability, or accuracy; or, in case of unmet needs, aid the creation of innovative solutions. Supported actions will need to advance beyond the current R&I status and, where applicable, must also take into account ongoing Union projects, such as under Horizon Europe, guaranteeing complementary. This will expand diagnostic capabilities to address emerging and re-emerging pathogens in the Union, by providing advanced tools to monitor and respond to outbreaks.

Updating diagnostic technologies to improve accuracy, speed, and accessibility and theoptimisation of diagnostic technologies such as molecular assays and serological tests, shouldbe supported by evidence on novel antigens or genetic sequences, including clinical testing.