Background

In an urgent response to the rising mpox cases across the continent, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) convened experts and representatives from 17 African countries this week in Brazzaville, the Republic of Congo. The aim was to develop effective preparedness and deployment plans for the mpox vaccine, ensuring optimal usage of the limited available doses.

Identifying Hotspots

As more vaccine shipments are anticipated for the coming months, countries are racing against time to pinpoint mpox hotspots—regions most severely impacted by the outbreak. These locations will serve as focal points for targeted vaccination efforts aimed at protecting high-risk populations.

Urgency in Vaccination Plans

Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director for Africa, emphasized the urgency of creating localized strategies, stating, “Given the ongoing difficulties in controlling the outbreak through traditional public health measures, the need for efficient vaccination plans is critical. With the constraints on vaccine supply, targeted deployment strategies must be informed by the local epidemiological context.”

Gathering of Experts

Over 120 participants, including representatives from Gavi, UNICEF, the United States CDC, and global health allies, gathered at the Regional Mpox Vaccine Preparedness and Deployment Plan Development meeting held from November 5-7, 2024. Experts provided the latest WHO guidelines and valuable tools to aid in crafting these vaccination plans.

Vaccine Deployment Progress

Despite initial setbacks in vaccine deployment across the continent, recent shipments of 280,000 vaccine doses to Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Nigeria mark a significant milestone. Vaccination initiatives are already underway in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda, with over 50,000 doses administered so far.

Commitment from African Nations

Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC, commended the proactive measures taken by African nations. “The swift actions reflect a remarkable commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations,” he said. 'This progress achieved in such a short timeframe underscores our member states' ambition and resilience to curb transmission and protect those at risk.'

Collaborative Efforts

As mpox cases continue to escalate, WHO, Africa CDC, and allied organizations are collaborating within the Continental Incident Management Support Team (IMST) to bolster countries' readiness and response capabilities. Their collective efforts expand beyond vaccination, addressing critical areas such as diagnostics, case management, and community engagement.

Current Situation and Future Directions

The timing of this cooperation is crucial, as mpox cases persist within Africa and have begun to emerge in other parts of the world. As of November 6, 2024, the continent has recorded over 11,000 laboratory-confirmed cases this year alone. While four countries—South Africa, Guinea, Cameroon, and Gabon—have recently entered a ‘controlled phase’ with no new report for six weeks, 14 others still face ongoing outbreaks, underscoring the need for urgent action.

Countries Receiving Support

The collaborative commitment to combat mpox is evident, as support is being directed to the following countries: Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Kenya, Nigeria, Republic of the Congo, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Conclusion

As the battle against mpox continues, the collaboration of these health organizations underscores a united front and the collective pursuit of protecting communities from this public health threat.