The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared a health emergency due to the increasing spread of mpox across the continent. The World Health Organization is also considering a similar emergency declaration as cases continue to rise. Mpox, also known as monkeypox, was first identified in 1958 and primarily affected individuals in central and west Africa who had close contact with infected animals.
This year, there have been over 14,000 cases and 524 deaths, with the majority occurring in Congo. Scientists are concerned about a new, potentially more easily transmissible strain of the virus in the region.
Key Points:
- Mpox causes symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches, with more severe cases leading to lesions on various body parts.
- The number of cases in Africa has surged, with mpox now detected in at least 13 countries.
- A new form of mpox in Congo has raised alarm due to its higher fatality rate and unique symptoms.
- Emergency declarations aim to mobilize resources and international support to contain the outbreak.
- Children under 15 now account for a significant portion of mpox cases and deaths in Congo.
- Vaccination and treatment efforts have been limited in Africa, highlighting the need for increased resources and support.
Response and Challenges:
The Africa CDC and WHO are working to coordinate a comprehensive response to the outbreak. The situation is particularly concerning in crowded refugee camps, where conditions are conducive to the spread of the virus.
Efforts to stop the spread of mpox include vaccination campaigns targeting high-risk populations and securing donations of vaccines and financial aid. WHO has allocated funds to support the response in Africa, but more resources are needed to effectively combat the outbreak.
The global community must come together to address the escalating crisis and prevent further spread of mpox across borders. Collaborative efforts and swift action are essential to protect vulnerable populations and contain the outbreak.
