Mpox Cases in Africa Exceed 59,200 Amid Health Emergency Declaration
As of this year, Africa has reported over 59,200 mpox cases, affecting 20 countries, according to the Africa CDC. The outbreak includes 12,938 confirmed cases and over 1,164 deaths. The surge in cases, especially in Central Africa, prompts declarations of health emergencies from the Africa CDC and WHO.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has reported that the total number of mpox cases in Africa has exceeded 59,200 this year, with 20 countries affected. During an online briefing, Ngashi Ngongo, the chief of staff at Africa CDC, highlighted that there have been 12,938 confirmed mpox cases and over 1,164 fatalities, yielding a case fatality rate of approximately 2%. In the past week alone, Africa documented 2,680 new cases, including 492 confirmed instances, along with 22 new deaths.
Particularly concerning, countries such as Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Uganda account for the majority of newly confirmed mpox cases. Additionally, Angola has become the latest nation to report an outbreak, registering its first confirmed case on November 16th. This surge in confirmed mpox cases is alarming, as it represented a 600% increase compared to last year’s figures. The majority of these cases are concentrated in the Central African region, which represents 93.2% of all confirmed instances and 99.5% of total deaths reported.
In light of this growing health crisis, the Africa CDC classified the mpox outbreak as a public health emergency of continental security in mid-August. This declaration was soon followed by the World Health Organization’s (WHO) designation of mpox as a public health emergency of international concern, marking the second instance within two years that the organization has activated its highest level of global alarm for this disease. Confirmed mpox cases have also surfaced in the United States and Canada, linked to travelers returning from Africa. Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is primarily spread through body fluids and respiratory droplets, with symptoms including fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that gained initial recognition in laboratory monkeys in 1958. The disease is characterized by its transmission via body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Following a considerable outbreak this year, health organizations have placed a heightened focus on monitoring and controlling the spread of mpox, particularly due to its rising cases in Africa. The Africa CDC has expressed grave concern regarding the outbreak, especially within Central African nations where the majority of cases have been reported. The implications of this outbreak extend beyond the continent, as evidenced by sporadic cases reaching countries like the United States and Canada.
The ongoing mpox outbreak in Africa represents a significant public health concern, with cases experiencing a staggering increase this year. The Africa CDC has identified 59,220 total cases across 20 nations, with key contributors being Central African countries. The declaration of a public health emergency emphasizes the urgency to address the situation, particularly as international cases arise. Continued monitoring and preventive measures are essential to contain further spread and protect public health.
Original Source: english.news.cn
