Mpox vaccine rollout begins in Africa: what will success look like?
August 28, 2024
Africa faces its deadliest mpox surge, with the virus spreading to 15 countries, including six first-time cases. However, a glimmer of hope emerges as vaccines become available on the continent for the first time. Despite mpox's long-standing presence in Africa, these vital tools were previously inaccessible. Rwanda has begun vaccinations, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Nigeria following suit. While the outbreak's severity is concerning, with over 31,400 suspected infections and 844 deaths in 2024, the introduction of vaccines marks a significant step forward in combating this public health crisis.
Africa is grappling with its most severe mpox outbreak to date, as the virus spreads across 15 countries, including six that had never reported cases before. This unprecedented surge has left health officials scrambling to contain the spread. However, a ray of hope has emerged in the form of vaccines, which are now available on the continent for the first time since mpox was first detected in Africa decades ago.
The arrival of these crucial medical tools marks a significant turning point in the fight against mpox in Africa. Previously, even during the global outbreak in 2022, African nations were unable to access the vaccines used in wealthier countries like Germany and the United States. This disparity has finally been addressed, thanks in part to the World Health Organization's declaration of mpox as a global public health emergency for the second time in history.
Rwanda has taken the lead, initiating vaccinations for high-risk individuals on September 17. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been the hardest-hit African nation, is set to follow on October 5, with Nigeria planning to commence its vaccination program within the next two weeks.
These developments come at a critical time, as African countries report more than 31,400 suspected mpox infections and 844 deaths in 2024 alone. The situation is further complicated by the emergence of a new strain, clade Ib, which has shown efficient person-to-person transmission, particularly in densely populated areas and through sexual contact.
While the effectiveness of these vaccines against the clade I virus remains to be seen, scientists are optimistic about their potential impact. As Africa CDC's mpox response coordinator, Nicaise Ndembi, works to orchestrate the distribution of these vital vaccines, the continent faces both challenges and opportunities in its ongoing battle against this devastating outbreak.