MPox Outbreak in Africa Still Uncontrolled, Cases on the Rise - Africa CDC Warns
The recent outbreak of the deadly mpox disease in Africa has caught the continent off guard, with cases still on the rise despite efforts to contain it. The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) issued a warning on Thursday, stating that the situation is alarming as cases continue to increase in multiple countries.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared this new variant of mpox a public health emergency of international concern, adding to the challenges faced by countries already grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Weak health systems in Africa have been exposed, highlighting the need for better preparedness to handle such public health crises.
Data from Africa CDC shows a staggering 177% surge in mpox cases in Africa, with a 38.5% increase in deaths compared to the same period last year. The director general of Africa CDC, Jean Kaseya, expressed concern over the lack of control over the disease, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
In just one week, 2,912 new cases were reported, with the disease spreading to new countries like Morocco. This confirms the widespread nature of the outbreak across all regions of the continent. So far, 15 African Union member states have reported cases, indicating the severity of the situation.
Despite efforts to contain the disease, Kaseya revealed that some countries are facing challenges in identifying different strains of the disease due to inadequate surveillance and testing systems. However, there are positive developments with Rwanda launching a vaccination campaign and the Democratic Republic of Congo set to start vaccinations in early October.
Analysis: The ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa is a serious public health crisis that requires immediate attention and coordinated efforts from governments, health organizations, and the international community. The surge in cases and deaths is alarming, highlighting the need for improved healthcare infrastructure and preparedness to handle such emergencies. Individuals should stay informed about the situation, follow recommended health guidelines, and support efforts to contain the outbreak to protect their well-being and that of their communities.