Mpox Cases Skyrocket in Africa

In a worrisome development, nearly 3,200 mpox cases were reported across various African nations last week, with 53 fatalities stemming from the virus, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). The concerning statistics come as the capital of the Republic of Congo, Brazzaville, confirmed its first case in six weeks, highlighting a potential resurgence of the virus in the region.

Concentration of Cases

Among the 16 countries that have reported mpox cases this year, five nations—Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Uganda—account for over 98% of the total cases. This alarming concentration raises concerns about the effectiveness of containment measures and the ability to address the outbreak.

Impact on Children

Dr. Jean Kaseya, director-general of the Africa CDC, emphasized the devastating impact of mpox on children under the age of 15 in several nations, particularly in the DRC, Burundi, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and the Central African Republic. He stated that more epidemiological studies are urgently needed to uncover how the virus is circulating among this vulnerable demographic.

Situation in DRC and Burundi

In the DRC, which remains the hardest-hit country, reports indicate that five provinces are experiencing exclusively the novel clade 1b mpox virus, while two provinces, including the capital Kinshasa, are seeing mixed infections of clade 1a and clade 1b. Meanwhile, Burundi has confirmed cases overwhelmingly consisting of clade 1b, with children making up more than half of these infections.

Vaccination Efforts

Vaccination efforts are underway, though progress is still slow. Since the beginning of vaccination campaigns in high-risk areas on October 5, over 1,600 individuals have received their shots, primarily in the North Kivu, South Kivu, and Tshopo provinces. Dr. Kaseya praised the DRC government for its communication strategies regarding the disease and vaccine distribution, but noted that logistical challenges still hinder the rapid rollout of vaccines.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, the Africa CDC is preparing to launch vaccination campaigns in the remaining affected provinces and health zones, with plans in place for Kinshasa as well. Nicaise Ndembi, senior advisor to the Africa CDC, confirmed that monitoring is ongoing for the allocation of the LC 16 vaccine, recently donated by Japan, aimed at vaccinating children under 18 years old.

Public Health Advisory

As the situation develops, health authorities urge the public to remain vigilant, especially with the potential for further increases in mpox cases. The deterioration of control measures could lead to a major health crisis affecting not just children but entire communities across the continent. Stay tuned for updates as more information becomes available on this urgent public health threat.