A recent surge in mpox outbreaks in Africa has been attributed to decades of neglect and the global community's failure to prevent sporadic epidemics among a population with limited immunity to the smallpox-related disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared a global emergency in response to the escalating situation.
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, has been spreading largely unnoticed for years in countries like Nigeria, leading to the 2022 outbreak affecting over 70 nations. Unlike the previous global outbreak primarily affecting gay and bisexual men, mpox in Africa is now being transmitted through sexual contact and close interactions among vulnerable groups.
Most individuals over 50 may have been vaccinated against smallpox, offering some protection against mpox. However, Africa's predominantly young population lacks this immunity, making them highly susceptible to the disease.
Mpox, a virus related to smallpox, presents with milder symptoms such as fever, chills, and body aches. It spreads through close skin-to-skin contact, including sexual activity, with severe cases resulting in blistering on various body parts.
The recent declaration of a global emergency by WHO was prompted by the escalating mpox outbreaks in Congo and 11 other African countries. Out of nearly 19,000 cases reported in 2024, the majority were in Congo, with a high percentage affecting children under 15.
Scientists have identified a new, potentially more transmissible variant of mpox, complicating diagnostic efforts due to limited testing capabilities in affected regions. While the new variant has been detected in several African countries and Sweden, its impact and severity are still under investigation.
Efforts to combat the spread of mpox are hindered by the lack of vaccines and treatments. Health workers in Africa are advised to focus on providing supportive care to patients, including nutritional support and mental health services to address the stigma associated with the disease.
WHO has issued an urgent appeal for $87.4 million to address the mpox crisis over the next six months. Previous fundraising attempts for mpox have been unsuccessful, highlighting the critical need for financial support to contain the outbreak.
