The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has warned of a growing crisis in mpox cases across the continent, with over 400 patients forced to flee treatment centers due to violence and insecurity. The Democratic Republic of Congo’s South Kivu Province is one of the main hotspots, with at least four healthcare facilities destroyed and nearly 153,000 people displaced.
The Africa CDC’s director-general, Jean Kaseya, has expressed concerns that the crisis will spread within and beyond the province, including to neighboring countries. He noted that conflict has disrupted mpox reporting in South Kivu for two weeks and highlighted the need for increased support and resources.
Mpox outbreaks have affected 22 African countries, with cases trending upward in six countries: Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Zambia, the Republic of Congo, Uganda, and the DRC. The US government has issued a waiver for humanitarian funds to aid in sample transport and vaccination efforts, but officials are awaiting clarification on access.
On a positive note, Africa CDC has hailed the approval of an African Epidemic Fund as a “game changer” for preparedness and response in the region. The fund aims to streamline resources and support local drug and vaccine manufacturing, while also innovating health financing.
Source: https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/mpox/mpox-risks-rise-dr-congo-conflict-area-large-cities-other-nations