The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided an update on the Mpox outbreak in Africa, particularly in the region of Congo where a new and more infectious variant was first detected. According to WHO, the number of Mpox cases in South Kivu, where the new variant was identified earlier this year, appears to be plateauing. However, the virus continues to increase in other regions of Congo, as well as in Burundi and Uganda.
While the overall trend of Mpox infections is on the rise, recent data from Congo shows a decrease in laboratory-confirmed cases, offering a glimmer of hope for health authorities to control the outbreak. So far, approximately 50,000 people in Congo have been immunized against Mpox, but an estimated 3 million vaccines are needed to halt the spread.
In Burundi, the Mpox outbreak is also fueled by the newer variant, which causes milder symptoms, making it harder for infected individuals to realize they are spreading the virus. The country has been reporting over 200 new Mpox cases weekly, with a majority affecting children and young adults.
Uganda has reported 100 new Mpox cases last week, with the virus primarily spreading through sexual contact, especially among adults. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact or contact with contaminated items.
WHO declared the rapid spread of Mpox in Africa a global health emergency in August. Africa has reported over 46,000 suspected cases, resulting in 1,081 deaths. An expert meeting is scheduled next Monday to assess if Mpox still poses an international emergency.
Last week, Britain reported the first case of the more infectious Mpox variant spreading beyond Africa. The infected individual had recently traveled to Africa, and three household contacts also tested positive. All are currently receiving treatment in London hospitals.
Efforts are ongoing to contain the Mpox outbreak in Africa, with a focus on vaccination, surveillance, and public health measures to prevent further spread of the virus.
