African health crisis

The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has reported a significant rise in mpox cases across the continent, with the total number surpassing 69,000 this year and fatalities exceeding 1,260. These alarming statistics were shared by Ngashi Ngongo, Chief of Staff at Africa CDC, during an online media briefing on Thursday. According to Africa CDC data, as of this year, 69,211 cases have been reported, including 14,794 confirmed infections and 1,268 deaths. Last week alone saw 3,095 new cases, with 553 confirmed and 31 additional deaths, marking a 789% increase in confirmed cases compared to 2023. Fifteen African countries currently face active mpox transmission, while five nations—Gabon, South Africa, Morocco, Zambia, and Zimbabwe—have recently transitioned to controlled stages of the outbreak. Ngongo emphasized the urgency of intensifying resource mobilization, expanding vaccination campaigns, and enhancing integrated response strategies. Other priorities highlighted by Africa CDC include improving data management systems and addressing co-infections, as 20 African nations remain affected by the outbreak. Ngongo called for collaboration among countries to share best practices and bolster efforts to contain the epidemic. The mpox outbreak was declared a public health emergency of continental security by Africa CDC in mid-August, shortly followed by the World Health Organization designating it a public health emergency of international concern. This marks only the second time in two years that WHO has issued its highest-level alert for the disease. First identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958, mpox—formerly known as monkeypox—is a rare viral disease that spreads through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes, posing severe risks to public health in Africa and beyond. Source: Nagalandpost Photo Credit: Nagalandpost