In this interview, Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, looks back on efforts to combat the MPOX outbreak in Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which accounts for over 96% of cases. He discusses the alarming situation, with a 177% increase in cases compared to last year, and explains why the outbreak is not yet under control. He also highlights the challenges facing Africa, such as weak health systems, lack of locally produced vaccines and medicines, and logistical difficulties. Africa CDC is calling for $600 million and 10 million doses of vaccines to contain the spread of the virus. Kaseya calls for international solidarity and hopes to rebuild trust with global partners to support the fight against this health crisis.
ACTUALITE.CD
We are here in Washington, DC, USA. Why are you here?
Jean Kaseya
I am in Washington before heading to New York for the United Nations General Assembly for three main reasons. The first is that we have just signed a historic agreement with the Pan American Health Organization, which has been in existence for over 122 years and has a great deal of experience in managing health programs. The second reason is to discuss with the American authorities health issues in Africa, including the fight against MPOX. And the third reason is to meet here with partners like the World Bank and others, to take stock of the projects that are underway.
ACTUALITE.CD
What is the current situation of this MPOX epidemic in Africa, particularly in the DRC?
Jean Kaseya
The situation remains very worrying, with more than 2,500 new cases each week, and around fifty deaths per week.
ACTUALITE.CD
Across Africa?
Jean Kaseya
Mainly in the DRC, which accounts for more than 96% of cases and deaths. We are implementing all possible means to stem the epidemic. We have a team in the DRC made up of around thirty people, supported by partners such as WHO and UNICEF. Together, we have developed a response plan that allows us to clearly define the actions to be taken. We are also strengthening epidemiological surveillance, laboratory capacities, and deploying vaccines to stop the spread of the virus.
ACTUALITE.CD
Can we say that the epidemic is under control today?
Jean Kaseya
No, the epidemic is not yet under control.
ACTUALITE.CD
Is it still out of control?
Jean Kaseya
I wouldn’t say it’s out of control, but it’s a very serious situation. We’re doing our best to get it under control, but we’re still far from it. For example, compared to the same period in 2023, we’ve seen a 177% increase in cases. To say that the epidemic is under control, we would have to return to the level of cases in 2023.
ACTUALITE.CD
From what percentage exactly?
Jean Kaseya
If from one week to the next you have a 177% increase, we would have to go back to a 0% increase rate, which is 2023 levels, to start talking about control.
ACTUALITE.CD
What are the main difficulties encountered?
Jean Kaseya
The challenges are many. First, this epidemic is hitting an already very fragile health system. We do not produce our medicines or vaccines in Africa. The systems for monitoring and managing epidemics are also very weak. That is why we are working with governments and our partners. On September 22, we will hold a meeting in New York with the heads of state of the countries affected by MPOX, to discuss a need for $600 million and 10 million doses of vaccines to stop the epidemic in Africa.
ACTUALITE.CD
So Africa CDC is asking for $600 million to control the epidemic. Is that right?
Jean Kaseya
Exactly. This amount was established thanks to contributions from member countries and partners.
ACTUALITE.CD
How are contributions distributed among countries?
Jean Kaseya
Each affected country has sent its response plan. These plans have been consolidated, totaling approximately $315 million for the countries. We are also providing technical and financial support through Africa CDC, WHO, and UNICEF, for a total of $600 million. At the meeting on September 22, each country will specify its contribution. For example, in the DRC, the government has already pledged $10 million.
ACTUALITE.CD
What exactly do you ask of partners?
Jean Kaseya
I expect solidarity, support, and respect. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when MPOX was declared a health emergency in 2022, some partners disengaged. I want to restore the relationship of trust with international partners.
ACTUALITE.CD
How many vaccines does Africa need to contain the epidemic?
Jean Kaseya
We estimate that we need 10 million doses of vaccines.
ACTUALITE.CD
How many doses do you have so far?
Jean Kaseya
So far, we have around 4 million doses mobilised, notably from Japan and European countries.
ACTUALITE.CD
How many doses did Japan promise in the recently signed deal?
Jean Kaseya
We are talking about around 3 million doses, but this remains to be finalized.
ACTUALITE.CD
When will these doses be available?
Jean Kaseya
We are currently working on the technical and logistical aspects. Once these elements are finalized, the vaccines will be delivered, but I cannot give a specific date at the moment.
ACTUALITE.CD
What are the specific challenges in launching the vaccination campaign in the DRC?
Jean Kaseya
The challenges are many: first, having the vaccines, then training staff and community relays, and ensuring logistics and communication. There was a bad campaign around vaccination in the DRC, and we must regain the confidence of the population.
ACTUALITE.CD
Why are vaccines donated by the United States and the European Union not suitable for children?
Jean Kaseya
Vaccines are licensed by WHO according to specifications based on studies. These vaccines were initially approved for adults, but new studies show that they can now be used in children 12 years of age and older.
ACTUALITE.CD
Is the number of doses received so far sufficient to stop the epidemic?
Jean Kaseya
Clearly, no. We need 10 million doses, and we have only received about 300,000 physically, with the promise of another 3 million doses. We are still far from the target.
ACTUALITE.CD
Dr. Kaseya, thank you for having us here in Washington DC, USA.
Jean Kaseya
Thank you.
