The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has announced a health emergency due to the escalating spread of mpox on the continent, raising concerns about the potential for the virus to cross international borders. The World Health Organization is also considering declaring a similar emergency regarding mpox.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 during outbreaks of a similar disease in monkeys. Previously, human cases were primarily found in central and west Africa among individuals who had close contact with infected animals. However, in 2022, the virus was confirmed to spread through sex for the first time, leading to outbreaks in over 70 countries with most cases affecting gay and bisexual men.
The recent surge in mpox cases in Africa, particularly in Congo, has sparked worries among scientists. A new variant of the disease in Congo is raising concerns as it appears to be more easily transmissible among people. This new form causes milder symptoms and lesions predominantly on the genitals, making it harder to detect and potentially facilitating unknowing transmission.
The emergency declaration by the Africa CDC aims to mobilize resources and prompt swift action to combat the spread of the virus. Dr. Jean Kaseya emphasized the need for international cooperation to halt the virus’s progression. The outbreak in Africa has shown different patterns compared to the 2022 global epidemic, with children under 15 constituting a significant portion of cases and fatalities in Congo.
Efforts to stop the spread of mpox in Africa include discussions with donors for vaccine donations and financial aid. WHO has allocated $1 million from its emergency fund to support the response to mpox in Africa. Immunization, particularly vaccinating populations at high risk, is seen as crucial in controlling the outbreak.
Experts suggest that inoculating individuals against related viruses like smallpox could be beneficial. Securing a substantial vaccine supply to reach vulnerable populations, such as sex workers, children, and residents in outbreak zones, is imperative to combat the spread of mpox in Africa.
