Mpox Surveillance Must Be Improved to Tackle Africa's Spike, Experts Urge

Sunday, 25 August 2024, 11:32

Mpox surveillance must be improved urgently as experts warn about a surge in cases across Africa. Without adequate data collection and rapid diagnostic tests, the current outbreak may be underreported. WHO experts emphasize the need for an urgent overhaul of surveillance systems to respond effectively.
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Mpox Surveillance Must Be Improved to Tackle Africa's Spike, Experts Urge

Mpox surveillance must be improved urgently as experts warn of a significant surge in cases across Africa. Dimie Ogoina, chair of the World Health Organization’s emergency committee on mpox, noted the outbreak has officially infected over 17,000 individuals, likely representing an undercount due to insufficient rapid diagnostic tests and ineffective data collection.

We’re under-reporting cases because our surveillance system is not active enough,” Ogoina stated. Recent WHO declarations reflect growing concerns over the more contagious clade 1 types circulating in Africa, especially in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Need for Enhanced Surveillance Systems

According to Ogoina, the current health crisis is unprecedented, and urgent action is necessary. He stated that reliance on evidence from the global north does not apply adequately to African contexts.

Concerns Over Vaccine Efficacy

There is also significant emphasis on the need for vaccine trials in Africa to determine efficacy. Ogoina highlighted that while new vaccines could be beneficial, understanding their impact in local settings is crucial.

  • More than 17,000 confirmed or suspected cases reported from across Africa
  • Current systems likely underreporting cases
  • Urgent call for a vaccination response plan

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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