Mpox Outbreak in Africa: Cases Surpass 77,800, Death Toll Reaches 1,321
The mpox outbreak in Africa has reached alarming levels, with over 77,800 cases reported since the start of 2024 and a death toll of 1,321, according to the africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The virus,formerly known as monkeypox,has now spread to 21 countries across the continent,with Sierra Leone being the latest to confirm its first outbreak on january 10.
During an online media briefing, Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya revealed that the continent has recorded 77,888 cases, including 16,767 confirmed cases. “The Central Africa region remains the most affected by the ongoing mpox outbreak, which has impacted all five regions of Africa,” Kaseya stated.
Active Transmission and Control Efforts
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Of the 21 affected countries, 13 are currently experiencing active transmission of the mpox virus. Though, eight nations are in the control phase, with South Africa, Gabon, Morocco, and Zimbabwe reporting no confirmed cases for over 90 days.
Kaseya outlined the Africa CDC’s priorities for the next three months,emphasizing the need to intensify responses in hotspot areas. This includes deploying epidemiologists and community health workers, decentralizing testing, enhancing laboratory infrastructure, and combating misinformation about the virus.
A Public Health Emergency
In mid-August 2024, the africa CDC declared the mpox outbreak a public health emergency of continental security. Shortly after,the World Health Organization (WHO) designated it a public health emergency of international concern, marking the second time in two years the organization has activated its highest level of global alert for mpox.
Understanding Mpox
First detected in laboratory monkeys in 1958,mpox is a rare viral disease transmitted through body fluids,respiratory droplets,and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. While most people recover fully,severe cases can be fatal.
Key Statistics at a Glance
| Metric | Data |
|—————————|——————————|
| Total Cases (2024) | 77,888 |
| Confirmed Cases | 16,767 |
| Death Toll | 1,321 |
| Affected Countries | 21 |
| Active Transmission | 13 Countries |
| Countries in Control Phase| 8 (4 with no cases for 90+ days)|
The Africa CDC continues to work tirelessly to curb the spread of mpox, urging countries to strengthen their healthcare systems and public awareness campaigns. As the outbreak evolves, the global community remains on high alert, emphasizing the importance of international collaboration in tackling this public health crisis.
Interview: Dr. Amina Nkosi on the Escalating Mpox Outbreak in Africa
The mpox outbreak in Africa has reached alarming levels, with over 77,800 cases reported as the start of 2024 and a death toll of 1,321. In this exclusive interview, Senior Editor Sarah Thompson of world-today-news.com speaks with Dr. Amina Nkosi, a leading infectious disease specialist, to discuss the current state of the outbreak, the challenges faced by healthcare systems, and the urgent measures needed to curb its spread.
Understanding the Mpox Virus
Sarah Thompson: Dr. Nkosi, thank you for joining us today. Can you start by explaining what mpox is and how it spreads?
Dr. Amina Nkosi: Thank you, Sarah. Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958. It’s transmitted through body fluids,respiratory droplets,and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. While most people recover fully, severe cases can be fatal, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
The Current State of the Outbreak
Sarah Thompson: the numbers are staggering—over 77,800 cases and 1,321 deaths. What’s driving this surge?
Dr. Amina Nkosi: Several factors are contributing to this surge. first, there’s a lack of awareness and preparedness in many parts of Africa. Additionally, healthcare infrastructure in some regions is insufficient to handle outbreaks of this scale. The virus has now spread to 21 countries, with 13 experiencing active transmission. The central Africa region remains the most affected.
Active Transmission and Control Efforts
Sarah Thompson: What are the Africa CDC and other organizations doing to control the outbreak?
Dr. Amina Nkosi: The Africa CDC has been working tirelessly to curb the spread. They’ve deployed epidemiologists and community health workers to hotspot areas,decentralized testing,and enhanced laboratory infrastructure.Public awareness campaigns are also crucial to combat misinformation.Eight countries are now in the control phase, with four reporting no cases for over 90 days, which is a positive sign.
The Role of International Collaboration
Sarah Thompson: The WHO has designated this outbreak as a public health emergency of international concern. how notable is global cooperation in this fight?
Dr. Amina Nkosi: International collaboration is absolutely critical. This is not just an African problem—it’s a global one. The WHO and other international bodies are providing essential support, including funding, medical supplies, and technical expertise. It’s also important for high-income countries to share resources like vaccines and therapeutics to ensure equitable access.
Looking Ahead
Sarah Thompson: What’s your outlook for the coming months?
Dr. Amina Nkosi: The situation remains concerning, but there’s hope if we act swiftly and decisively. Strengthening healthcare systems,ramping up vaccination efforts,and educating the public are key. We must also address the root causes, such as improving living conditions and access to healthcare in underserved areas.The Africa CDC’s three-month plan is a step in the right direction, but sustained efforts will be needed to fully control the outbreak.
