Mpox public health emergency declared in Africa

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has officially declared a public health emergency for the African region in response to the recent outbreak of mpox (formerly known as monkeypox). This outbreak has affected at least 13 African countries, with suspected cases exceeding 17,000, marking a severe situation.

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

As of 2024, African countries have confirmed 2,863 cases and 517 deaths, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being the hardest hit. Currently, the number of suspected cases across the African continent exceeds 17,000, showing a significant increase compared to 7,146 cases in 2022 and 14,957 in 2023. Dr. Kaseya noted, "This is likely just the tip of the iceberg, considering the many weaknesses in surveillance, laboratory testing, and contact tracing."

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

Since May 2022, a global mpox outbreak has resulted in over 97,000 reported cases worldwide. The virus spreads through close personal contact, including sexual contact, primarily affecting men who have sex with men. Infection can cause symptoms such as fever, muscle aches, and a widespread rash, and can be fatal if left untreated. The 2022 global spread was caused by a milder strain of the virus, affecting Europe, Australia, the United States, and other countries. However, a more deadly strain has recently been discovered in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Additionally, the Africa CDC has announced plans to procure 10 million doses of mpox vaccine.