Mpox (Monkeypox) Crisis: Africa's Response by CDC and WHO
Mpox Outbreak in Africa
The Africa CDC has raised awareness of a significant surge in Monkeypox (mpox) cases across the continent, launching a coordinated response plan with the WHO. As of 2024, there have been 24,851 suspected cases, including 5,549 confirmed cases and 643 deaths. The Congo region has been identified as the epicenter of this outbreak, accounting for 90 percent of reported cases. Director General Jean Kaseya emphasized the upward trend in mpox cases, particularly since May 2024, affecting at least 14 countries.
Unified Global Efforts to Combat Mpox
WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti, called for collaborative action to address the mpox outbreak in Congo. She highlighted the necessity for coordination between the Africa CDC and WHO under their joint continental response plan. Moeti stated, “This milestone in coordinated action will help to strengthen expertise and mobilize resources.”
Public Health Concerns and Vaccination Strategies
In August, the WHO declared the mpox outbreak in Africa a public health emergency due to the emergence of the clade 1b variant first detected in Congo. The variant poses a heightened risk; cases have appeared outside Africa in nations like Sweden and Thailand. Congo recently received 99,100 vaccine doses, but vaccination strategies are still under development amidst a humanitarian crisis.
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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.