The World Health Organization (WHO) is optimistic about the possibility of stopping the ongoing mpox outbreaks in Africa within the next six months. The agency is set to deliver its first shipment of vaccines to Congo imminently, where the virus has taken a significant toll, with over 18,000 suspected cases and 629 deaths reported.
Despite the rapid rise in mpox infections in recent weeks, the number of fatalities has remained relatively low. A new strain of mpox has emerged, with cases identified in several countries beyond Africa, including Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda, Sweden, and Thailand.
Earlier this month, WHO declared the mpox outbreaks in Africa a global emergency to mobilize a robust international response. The disease, related to smallpox but causing milder symptoms, can lead to painful sores and blisters in severe cases. It is primarily transmitted through close skin-to-skin contact.
WHO estimates that around 230,000 vaccine doses will be dispatched to Congo and other affected regions soon. The agency is also focusing on public education campaigns to raise awareness and prevent further spread of the virus.
Efforts are being made to expedite vaccine access for affected countries, given the limited vaccine supply. However, scientists emphasize the need for a better understanding of how mpox is spreading in Africa to optimize vaccine deployment.
Africa is expecting to receive approximately 380,000 doses of mpox vaccines pledged by donors, including the U.S. and the European Union. This falls short of the total doses required to bring the outbreaks under control in Congo.
The WHO and its partners are working tirelessly to contain the mpox outbreaks in Africa and prevent further escalation of the crisis. With coordinated efforts and adequate resources, there is hope that the situation can be brought under control in the coming months.
