Is Mpox a public health emergency in Africa?

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has declared mpox, previously known as monkeypox, a public health emergency as cases surge in Africa. This declaration follows a similar move by the African Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and highlights the growing concern over the spread of this highly transmissible virus. Mpox, which can cause fever, skin lesions, and even death, is particularly dangerous for individuals with uncontrolled HIV. The WHO has called for a coordinated international response and urged vaccine manufacturers to expedite approvals for emergency use.

The outbreak, centered in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has spread to neighbouring countries, with over 2,800 cases and 517 deaths reported this year. The situation is exacerbated by limited access to testing in rural areas, overcrowded hospitals, and a fragile healthcare system still recovering from previous Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks.

Experts warn that this outbreak could be more severe than previous ones, with a higher burden of illness and more widespread transmission. The Africa CDC has called for global support, including the need for millions of vaccine doses to control the crisis.

Please be advised to be cautious and aware of the seriousness of this situation, as it demands urgent and collective action to prevent further spread and save lives.

The re-emergence and spread of this virus are alarming for several reasons:

Zoonotic Nature: Mpox is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. This makes it harder to control, especially in regions with close human-animal interactions. The rising number of zoonotic diseases highlights a growing global health threat linked to environmental changes, deforestation, and wildlife trade.

Global Spread: Although mpox has traditionally been endemic to certain African countries, its spread to other parts of the world in recent years underscores its potential to become a more widespread issue. The global mobility of people and goods makes it easier for such diseases to cross borders.

Vulnerable Populations: Mpox can be particularly severe in individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with uncontrolled HIV. In regions with limited access to healthcare, the impact can be devastating, leading to higher mortality rates and overwhelming already fragile health systems.

Underreporting and Testing Challenges: The underreporting of cases, especially in rural areas with limited access to testing, means that the actual number of infections could be much higher than reported. This gap in data makes it difficult to gauge the full scale of the outbreak and to respond effectively.

Vaccine and Treatment Gaps: While vaccines exist, there is a significant gap in their availability, especially in the regions most affected. The slow pace of vaccine approvals and distribution is a critical issue that needs urgent attention to prevent further spread.

In summary, mpox is a serious and growing health threat that requires a coordinated international response. The world cannot afford to be complacent, and efforts to increase awareness, improve healthcare infrastructure, and ensure equitable access to vaccines and treatments are essential.