African Health Officials Warn Of Mpox Spread

Mpox Cases Spike by 160% in Africa

Continent Faces Increased Risk of Further Spread

Health Officials Issue Warnings

African health officials have issued a warning about the rapid spread of mpox on the continent.

According to the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), mpox infections have spiked by 160 percent in 2024. This alarming increase has prompted the CDC to warn that the risk of further spread is high.

The outbreak is particularly concerning because it involves a more deadly form of mpox that has spread beyond the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo. New outbreaks have been reported in Kenya and the Central African Republic, raising concerns about the disease's potential impact on other countries.

The National Focal Point (NFP) of the Republic of South Africa for the International Health Regulations (IHR) has urged researchers and public health officials in Africa to intensify their efforts to combat mpox.

Mpox, a neglected tropical disease, has been re-emerging with increasing frequency in Africa. The recent spike in cases and the emergence of a more deadly strain highlight the urgent need for effective prevention and control measures to protect the continent's population.