Congo Faces Surge in Mpox Cases as Africa Pleads for Vaccine Support
Congo reports over 1,000 new mpox cases in a week, highlighting the growing threat in Africa. Health authorities urgently request vaccines as the WHO declares the outbreaks a global emergency.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported a significant increase in mpox cases, with over 1,000 new infections recorded in the week leading up to August 13, 2024. This surge has prompted African health authorities to urgently request vaccine support to combat the escalating threat on the continent.
Jean Kaseya, director-general of the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), emphasized the critical need for vaccines, stating that the situation is "growing and spreading" while countries await doses. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the mpox outbreaks in Africa a global health emergency, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Mpox, a viral infection belonging to the same family as smallpox, causes milder symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches. It primarily spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual intercourse. In more severe cases, individuals may develop lesions on various parts of the body.
The Africa CDC reported that out of 18,910 mpox cases in Africa in 2024, an overwhelming 94% (17,794 cases) were concentrated in Congo. The country also accounted for 535 out of 541 reported deaths. However, these figures likely underestimate the true extent of the outbreak, as only about 20% of suspected cases in Congo undergo testing.
"Don't punish Africa. We need you to provide appropriate support. This vaccine is expensive."
The identification of a new mpox variant in eastern Congo, potentially more transmissible, has further heightened concerns. This development led to the WHO's declaration of a global health emergency, aiming to encourage international support and vaccine donations.
Some progress has been made in securing vaccines. The European Union and Bavarian Nordic have pledged 215,000 doses, while the United States has donated 50,000 doses to Congo. Japan has also contributed an unspecified number of doses. However, these efforts fall short of the estimated 3 million doses needed by Congo alone to effectively contain the outbreaks.
Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa's President, criticized the global response to the 2022 mpox outbreak, drawing parallels to the inequitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines. He called for "equitable access" to mpox diagnostics and vaccines, emphasizing the need for international solidarity.
The mpox situation in Africa highlights ongoing challenges in global health equity. As the continent grapples with this growing threat, the international community faces a critical test in its ability to provide timely and adequate support to prevent further spread and potential global implications.
