Mpox Deaths Rise by 107 in Africa, CDC Labels Increase Unacceptable

African countries have reported over 100 mpox-related deaths in the past week, according to the Africa Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). Dr. Jean Kaseya, the director-general, described the rising death toll as "not acceptable." He emphasised the need for stronger cross-border surveillance to combat the disease effectively.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) declared outbreaks in 12 African countries a global emergency last month. WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus noted that while cases have been increasing rapidly, deaths were relatively few until recently. The number of new cases recorded last week was 3,160.

Continental Response Plan

Africa CDC and WHO launched a continental response plan with an estimated budget of nearly $600 million. This six-month plan allocates 55% of the funds to respond to mpox in 14 affected nations and boost readiness in 15 others. Some African Union member states have already contributed to this budget, which Kaseya praised as showing ownership by the continent.

Vaccination efforts are underway, with Africa receiving vaccines to curb the outbreak. Congo has received 250,000 doses, but this is only a fraction of the 3 million doses needed. EU countries pledged to donate over 500,000 doses, although the delivery timeline remains unclear. The recommended vaccination course requires two doses.

Testing and Surveillance

Dr. Kaseya stressed the importance of increased testing and resources to support it. He mentioned that men recorded the highest positivity rate at 63%, while children under 15 had a rate of 41%. He also highlighted that relying solely on confirmed cases for decision-making is insufficient.

Mpox can be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy. More research is needed to determine how common this transmission is. The disease belongs to the same family of viruses as smallpox but causes milder symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches. Severe cases can lead to lesions on the face, hands, chest, and genitals.

Efforts and Challenges

Africa CDC has recorded 5,731 confirmed mpox cases and 724 associated deaths since the beginning of the year. Dr. Kaseya plans to travel to Congo for vaccination in early October to demonstrate that the vaccine is safe. "We don't want to compromise on protection of our people," he said.

The need for increased testing was echoed by Dr. Kaseya, who stated that the continent is not testing enough. He called for more resources to support testing efforts. "In one week, we lost 107 people. It's too much. It's not acceptable," he said.

The rising number of cases comes after WHO declared outbreaks in multiple African countries a global emergency last month. The increased number of deaths highlights the urgent need for effective measures and international support.

Africa's response plan includes receiving vaccines from various sources. While Congo has received some doses, more are needed to meet the demand. The EU's pledge for additional doses is a positive step, but timely delivery is crucial.

The situation underscores the importance of international cooperation and resource allocation to combat mpox effectively. As Africa continues its efforts, global support remains vital in addressing this health crisis comprehensively.

The article concludes by highlighting Africa's ongoing efforts and challenges in combating mpox while stressing the need for continued international support and cooperation.