Game-Changing Update on Mpox Response in Africa

In a significant turn of events, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) have unveiled an updated strategy to combat the mpox outbreak plaguing the continent. Their new joint response plan arrives amidst promising indicators of a case decline across several key regions.

A Cautious Optimism Amid Ongoing Challenges

During an Africa CDC briefing, the organization's Director-General, Dr. Jean Kaseya, highlighted that while certain areas are seeing a reduction, mpox cases continue to spread in various parts of Africa. The DRC, identified as the epicenter of the outbreak, has attracted increased regional and global resources since public health emergencies were declared in August 2024.

Key Focus Areas for the Enhanced Response Plan

The updated plan centers around ten critical pillars aimed at halting human-to-human transmission and seamlessly integrating mpox responses into standard health services. This includes targeted vaccination efforts, cross-border collaborations, and bolstered community surveillance, although the WHO acknowledges ongoing challenges like conflict in eastern DRC and critical funding shortages.

Spotlight on Declining and Rising Cases

Dr. Kaseya reported promising declines in mpox cases, particularly in hotspots such as Burundi and the DRC. However, Uganda remains concerning, accounting for over half of Africa’s cases last week, with Kampala being the hardest hit. Vaccination campaigns are actively targeting vulnerable groups, including sex networks and long-distance drivers.

Effective Infection Control in Healthcare Settings

Encouragingly, the DRC has seen a 50% reduction in mpox infections among healthcare workers since November 2024, thanks to enhanced infection prevention measures. This achievement underscores the importance of health system preparedness in combating outbreaks.

Monitoring Global Cases Amid Local Outbreaks

On the global front, case reports in China and Switzerland have emerged, linked to recent travel to outbreak regions. Officials remain vigilant as the situation develops.

Addressing Multiple Health Crises in Africa

Simultaneously, Africa is grappling with other health threats. Uganda is facing an ongoing anthrax outbreak that has infected 16 individuals without fatalities reported. In the DRC, animal health concerns have escalated with anthrax outbreaks in local hippopotamus populations. Additionally, a cholera outbreak in Angola has surged, with cases rising by 11.5% last week.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mpox in Africa

As Africa CDC prepares to reconvene its mpox emergency committee to reassess the public health status, the focus remains on ensuring rapid interventions and effective disease control. With hope on the horizon and strides in vaccination and infection control, the continent is taking significant steps to combat mpox and safeguard public health.