Mpox public health emergency declared in Africa

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared a public health emergency in Africa due to the recent outbreak of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox). Currently, at least 13 African countries have reported mpox outbreaks, with suspected cases exceeding 17,000, indicating a very serious situation.

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director of the Africa CDC, stated, "This is not just another challenge, but a crisis that requires our collective action." The declaration of a public health emergency is intended to help governments coordinate responses and facilitate the delivery of medical supplies and aid to affected areas. Countries previously unaffected, such as Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, have also reported outbreaks.

Since the beginning of 2024, African countries have confirmed 2,863 cases and 517 deaths. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the most severely affected country. Currently, suspected cases across the African continent exceed 17,000, a significant increase compared to 7,146 cases in 2022 and 14,957 cases in 2023. Dr. Kaseya also pointed out, "Considering the many shortcomings in monitoring, laboratory testing, and contact tracing, this may only be the tip of the iceberg."

The Africa CDC stated that despite the outbreak, there is currently no need to implement travel restrictions. This is the first such declaration made by the Africa CDC since its establishment in 2017. The agency also called for assistance from international partners. Dr. Kaseya emphasized, "We call on everyone to stand with us during this critical time. Africa has long been at the forefront of fighting infectious diseases, but resources are often limited. Combating mpox requires a global response. We need your support, expertise, and solidarity. The world cannot turn a blind eye to this crisis."

Since May 2022, there has been a global mpox outbreak with over 97,000 cases reported worldwide. The virus spreads through close personal contact, including sexual contact, and mainly affects men who have sex with men. It can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and systemic lesions, and can be fatal if not treated promptly. The outbreak that spread to Europe, Australia, the United States, and other countries in 2022 was caused by a milder strain of the virus, while a more deadly strain has recently been discovered in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Africa CDC also announced plans to procure 10 million doses of mpox vaccine.