Alarming Rise in Mpox Cases Across Several African Nations

While some regions breathe a sigh of relief with declining cases, others in Africa are seeing a disturbing surge in mpox infections. Recent reports from the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) highlight that countries like Burundi, Uganda, Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, and Guinea are grappling with increasing case numbers, causing concern among health officials.

Tracking Outbreaks: A Mixed Bag of Progress and Challenges

At a recent briefing, Dr. Yap Boum, deputy incident manager for the Africa CDC's mpox response, revealed that 23 African nations reported outbreaks this year, with 18 currently active. The situation varies dramatically from country to country, influenced by factors such as viral clades, affected populations, public health measures, and local health behaviors.

Good news emerged from Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where proactive contact tracing and vaccination efforts are yielding positive results. In Sierra Leone, over 120,000 individuals have been vaccinated, but a looming shortage of vaccines is hindering broader efforts in other heavily impacted regions.

Resurgence in Burundi and Uganda: The Need for Clear Communication

Burundi, once a beacon of hope with early successes in curbing the outbreak, is now witnessing a resurgence. Dr. Boum points to public complacency, as many believe the crisis has passed. He emphasizes the need for renewed risk communication efforts and enhanced surveillance to identify and control ongoing transmission in seven districts, particularly around Bujumbura North.

Meanwhile, Uganda has reported a staggering 60% increase in cases, predominantly in Kampala, where active surveillance has intensified. Areas like Wakiso and Masaka City are also seeing spikes in infections.

Emerging Crises in Ghana, Kenya, Liberia, and Guinea

In West Africa, Ghana has alarmingly doubled its case numbers in just one week, predominantly in the Western Region, which accounts for over half of all confirmed cases. The situation mirrors that of other countries in the region where Clade 2 is circulating.

Kenya, too, is facing its highest weekly totals since the outbreak began last summer. As community transmission rises, health responders are struggling with tracking cases beyond the northern transport corridors.

Liberia is experiencing an increase, particularly in Montserrado, with test positivity soaring from 37% to an astonishing 79%. Guinea is not far behind, reporting upticks in cases over the last month, notably in Conakry and Kindia.

The Path Forward: A Call for Collective Action

As mpox cases rise across Africa, it is imperative for health authorities to ramp up efforts, ensuring effective vaccination, clear communication, and strengthened surveillance systems. The fight against mpox is not over, and every nation must remain vigilant to protect their populations from this resurgence.