WHO pandemic threat director: Here’s what needs to happen to combat mpox
September 17, 2024
Contrary to popular belief, African countries affected by the current mpox outbreak possess significant capacities for effective outbreak response, developed through experiences with various diseases. The real challenges lie in sustaining these capacities and addressing inadequate access to essential health resources. A coordinated, equitable global response is crucial to control the outbreak and prevent future resurgences. While the recent arrival of mpox vaccines in the Democratic Republic of Congo is promising, it's not a standalone solution. The situation demands a comprehensive approach based on equity and solidarity to overcome the consequences of global neglect and effectively combat the mpox outbreaks.
A pervasive myth suggests that the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and other African countries affected by the current mpox outbreak lack the capacity for effective outbreak response. This misconception is far from the truth. These nations possess significant experience and capabilities across various crucial areas of outbreak management, including field epidemiology, testing, sequencing, case finding, contact tracing, clinical care, infection prevention control, risk communication, community engagement, vaccination delivery, scientific research, and emergency operations.
These capacities have been developed and honed through experiences with outbreaks of Ebola, measles, polio, and during the Covid-19 pandemic. The real challenge lies not in the absence of skills or knowledge, but in sustaining these capacities in the face of conflict, insecurity, and chronic inadequate access to lifesaving materials. The affected countries struggle with obtaining affordable, available, and reliable diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines, and other essential health products.
To effectively control the outbreak and prevent future resurgences, a swift, coordinated, and equitable global response is critical. The current situation is a consequence of global neglect, and only a response grounded in equity and solidarity can effectively address it.
Recent developments, such as the arrival of the first mpox vaccines in the DRC on September 5th, are encouraging steps forward in controlling transmission. However, it's crucial to recognize that vaccines alone won't end the mpox outbreaks. They are an important tool, but not a panacea.
This situation underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to global health crises. It calls for sustained support in building and maintaining health infrastructures, ensuring equitable access to medical resources, and fostering global cooperation in health emergencies. By addressing these fundamental issues and dispelling misconceptions about African healthcare capacities, the international community can work more effectively towards containing the mpox outbreak and building a more resilient global health system.