Mpox Outbreak: A Global Health Crisis with US Implications
Table of Contents
The mpox virus, previously known as monkeypox, continues to pose a important global health challenge. While the initial outbreak in 2022 sparked widespread concern, the situation in Africa remains especially dire, prompting urgent calls for international collaboration.
According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC),over 65,000 cases and more than 1,200 deaths have been reported across the continent in 2024 alone. The rapid spread has led to the declaration of a Public Health Emergency Threatening Continental security (PHECS) by the Africa CDC and a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The sheer scale of the outbreak is alarming. “The African continent is still losing people to the raging mpox epidemic, which has so far affected 20 countries,” stated Africa CDC Director General Jean Kaseya, emphasizing the need for a concerted global response. The recent surge in cases, with thousands reported in just the past week, underscores the urgency of the situation.
While six African nations—Gabon, Guinea, South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—have reportedly transitioned from active transmission to a controlled stage, the overall situation remains precarious. The virus’s continued spread highlights the need for robust surveillance, improved healthcare infrastructure, and effective public health interventions across the continent.
Mpox in the united States: A Low but Present Risk
Although the risk to the general US population remains low, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a single case of Clade I mpox was identified in November 2024, linked to the outbreak in Central and Eastern Africa. This underscores the interconnectedness of global health and the potential for outbreaks to spread internationally. Continued vigilance and proactive measures are crucial to prevent a wider spread within the United States.
Understanding the transmission of mpox is vital. The virus spreads through close contact with infected individuals, their bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. Symptoms typically include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. Early detection and isolation remain key strategies in containing the virus’s spread.
The ongoing mpox outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the importance of global health collaboration and preparedness. The international community must work together to support affected regions, develop and distribute effective vaccines and treatments, and strengthen public health systems to mitigate the impact of future outbreaks.
Mpox outbreak Declared a Public Health Emergency in Africa
The mpox virus, despite a global decline in cases since the 2022 outbreak, continues to afflict Africa with alarming intensity. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) declared a Public Health Emergency Threatening Continental Security (PHECS) as cases soar across the continent. World-Today-News Senior Editor, Sarah Miller, sat down with Dr. adeola Oyekanmi, a leading infectious disease specialist, to discuss the escalating crisis.
Interview Transcript
Sarah Miller: Dr. Oyekanmi, thank you for joining us. The news from Africa regarding the mpox outbreak is deeply concerning. Can you provide our readers with some context on the current situation?
Dr. Adeola Oyekanmi: Thank you for having me. It is indeed a grave situation. We are seeing an unprecedented surge in mpox cases across the African continent. The Africa CDC has reported over 65,000 cases and more than 1,200 deaths in 2024 alone. This rapid spread has overwhelmed healthcare systems in many countries and led to the declaration of a Public Health Emergency Threatening Continental Security.
Sarah Miller: What factors are contributing to the severity of this outbreak?
Dr. Adeola Oyekanmi: several factors are at play. Limited access to healthcare in many parts of Africa makes it difficult for people to get diagnosed and treated promptly. There are also ongoing challenges with vaccine and treatment availability. Furthermore, misinformation and stigma surrounding the virus can prevent people from seeking care, leading to further spread.
Sarah Miller: Are there any efforts underway to help contain the outbreak?
Dr. Adeola Oyekanmi: Absolutely. The Africa CDC is working closely with member states to strengthen surveillance and response measures. International organizations, such as the World Health Organization, are providing technical and logistical support. Several countries are also implementing vaccination campaigns.
Sarah Miller: What about the risk to other parts of the world, including the United states?
Dr. Adeola Oyekanmi: While the risk to the general population in the United States remains low, as evidenced by the CDC’s assessment, the interconnectedness of global health means that we cannot ignore this outbreak. The emergence of Clade I mpox in the US, linked to the Central African outbreak, is a reminder that we need to remain vigilant and prepared.
Sarah Miller: Dr. Oyekanmi, what message would you like to leave our readers with?
Dr. Adeola Oyekanmi: This outbreak is a stark reminder of the importance of global health security. We need continued investment in surveillance, healthcare infrastructure, and research to prevent and respond to infectious disease threats effectively. We must also promote collaboration and details sharing between countries. The mpox outbreak in Africa is a global concern, and it requires a global response.
sarah Miller: Thank you, dr. Oyekanmi, for your valuable insights.
