Sustaining mpox response in Africa as efforts begin bearing fruit
December 3, 2024
The World Health Organization (WHO) has affirmed progress in combating mpox in Africa, noting that several countries, including Ghana and South Africa, have entered the "control phase." Efforts in surveillance, vaccination, and community engagement are proving effective, though challenges persist, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which accounts for 80% of cases. WHO and partners have trained over 2,000 health workers and delivered 42,000 PCR tests in October. However, outbreaks in eight high-concern countries necessitate urgent, sustained intervention. Global solidarity and resources remain critical to consolidating gains and addressing ongoing gaps in diagnostics and vaccine access.
Encouraging strides have been made in Africa’s fight against mpox, as highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Several countries, including Ghana, Zambia, and South Africa, have entered the "control phase," marking a significant reduction in active outbreaks. Efforts such as enhanced surveillance, targeted vaccination campaigns, and risk communication have been instrumental in curbing the virus's spread. Over 42,000 PCR tests were deployed in October alone, and more than 2,000 health workers have been trained in outbreak response.
Despite these achievements, challenges remain. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to bear the highest burden, accounting for 80% of all confirmed cases in the region. Mpox has spread to 424 out of 519 health zones in the DRC, with provinces like South Kivu and Tshuapa hardest hit. Limited diagnostic capacity and logistical constraints hinder effective response efforts, with only 37% of collected samples tested during a three-week period this fall. Burundi and Uganda also face significant outbreaks, underscoring the need for sustained intervention.
The WHO, in partnership with Africa CDC, has facilitated vaccine access by prequalifying the MVA-BN vaccine and expediting emergency use listings for others. Nearly 900,000 doses have been allocated to nine high-burden countries, with vaccination campaigns underway in the DRC, Nigeria, and Rwanda. However, many affected communities still lack adequate resources to combat the virus effectively.
Global and regional solidarity is crucial to consolidating these gains. Increased funding, stronger national commitments, and expanded access to vaccines and diagnostics are essential. As mpox remains a global public health emergency, concerted efforts must continue to ensure that no region or community is left behind in the fight against this persistent threat.