Introduction

In a powerful collaboration to combat the ongoing Mpox outbreak, Singapore’s Ministry of Health is stepping up to provide crucial support to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). This initiative includes the provision of mpox diagnostic kits and testing supplies, enabling the implementation of up to 50,000 tests across the continent.

Public Health Emergency Declaration

The outbreak of Mpox, which has taken a worrying toll across African nations, was declared a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) by the Africa CDC on August 13, 2024, swiftly followed by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) declaration of a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) just a day later, on August 14. This urgent status reflects the serious nature of the emerging crisis, which has seen a rapid global spread.

Impact of the Outbreak

As of November 2024, the outbreak has notably impacted 19 African Union member states, with over 12,000 confirmed cases reported since the onset of the year. Alarmingly, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Burundi have been identified as hotspots for new cases, stressing the need for immediate and effective intervention.

Challenges in Controlling the Outbreak

One of the major obstacles hampering the control of the Mpox outbreak has been a critical shortage of essential testing supplies. This lack of resources has severely affected laboratory testing capabilities, making it challenging to detect and manage cases effectively, and to trace contacts of positive individuals. Recognizing this, the Africa CDC and WHO have launched a comprehensive continental plan aimed at significantly scaling up Mpox testing.

Strategic Plan to Enhance Testing

The strategic plan to enhance lab capabilities includes several key measures: bolstering the capacity of centralised Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing sites, activating additional testing locations, rolling out near point-of-care testing options, training lab personnel, and ensuring a steady supply of necessary testing equipment.

Conclusion

As the global community unites to respond to this urgent health crisis, experts are urging those in affected areas to remain vigilant and informed. Stay tuned for further updates on the fight against Mpox as health authorities work tirelessly to turn the tide against this outbreak. Will this partnership lead to a breakthrough in ending this crisis? Only time will tell!