Mpox Cases in African Surpass
By Lerato Mpembe
The African continent is grappling with a significant surge in Mpox cases, with reported infections exceeding 65,000 and the death toll surpassing 1,200 in 2024, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
Current Statistics and Affected Regions
As of December 2024, Africa has documented 65,711 Mpox cases since the beginning of the year, including 14,241 confirmed infections and over 1,237 deaths. In the past week alone, the continent reported 3,545 new cases, with 467 confirmed and 37 additional deaths. 
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains the most affected country, particularly in the South Kivu province, which has reported the highest number of suspected and confirmed Mpox cases. 
Public Health Emergency Declarations
In mid-August, the Africa CDC declared the ongoing Mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security. Subsequently, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated Mpox as a public health emergency of international concern, marking the second time in two years that such a declaration has been made for this disease. 
Vaccine Deployment and International Support
In response to the escalating crisis, international efforts have been mobilized to provide vaccines and medical supplies to the affected regions. Notably, Japan has pledged to donate three million doses of its Mpox vaccine, LC16m8, developed by KM Biologics, for use in children in the DRC. The first shipments are expected to arrive next week, with vaccinations targeting children aged zero to five years. 
Additionally, Moroccan startup Moldiag has begun producing and distributing Mpox tests, marking Africa’s initial step toward self-reliance in medical supplies. These tests are more affordable, priced at $5 each, and are designed to address shortages effectively. Moldiag has agreements to supply tests to several African nations, reducing reliance on imports from China or Europe. 
Challenges in Containment and Healthcare Infrastructure
The rapid spread of Mpox, particularly the novel clade Ib variant, poses significant challenges to containment efforts. The virus has been detected in multiple countries, including the United Kingdom, Germany, Sweden, and India, indicating a broader geographic distribution. 
Healthcare systems in affected African countries are under immense strain, with limited resources and infrastructure hindering effective response measures. The situation is further exacerbated by concurrent outbreaks of other diseases, such as cholera and measles, as well as widespread malnutrition, particularly among children. 
Preventive Measures and Public Awareness
Health authorities are emphasizing the importance of preventive measures to curb the spread of Mpox. The virus, known to spread through close physical contact, including sexual contact, necessitates public awareness campaigns to educate communities about transmission risks and protective behaviors. 
The WHO has also approved vaccines from Bavarian Nordic and Japan’s KM Biologics for emergency use, aiming to bolster vaccination efforts across the continent. 
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