Mpox cases in Africa have exceeded 59,200 in 2023, affecting 20 countries. The outbreak is largely concentrated in Central Africa, with a significant surge surpassing 600 percent compared to last year. Over 1,164 deaths have been reported, leading to a declaration of a public health emergency by Africa CDC and WHO.
As of November 30, 2023, the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) reported that mpox cases in Africa have reached 59,220, affecting 20 countries. The data revealed that there have been over 12,938 confirmed cases and 1,164 fatalities, resulting in a case fatality rate of approximately 2 percent. Ngashi Ngongo, Chief of Staff at Africa CDC, indicated that the outbreak remains severely concentrated in Central Africa, contributing to 93.2 percent of confirmed cases and 99.5 percent of deaths. Notably, new infections surged by over 600 percent this year as compared to the previous year, underscored by 2,680 new cases reported in just the last week, including 492 confirmed cases and 22 deaths.
Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that was first identified in laboratory monkeys in 1958. It is primarily spread through body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials. Symptoms typically include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes. The current outbreak in Africa has escalated alarmingly, prompting health authorities to declare it a public health emergency. The World Health Organization (WHO) also raised its alert level for mpox in August, reflecting the need for urgent intervention to contain this rising threat.
The alarming rise in mpox cases in Africa necessitates immediate attention and action from public health officials. With the number of cases exceeding 59,200 this year and the concentration of infections mainly in Central Africa, proactive measures are essential to limit transmission. The recent qualifications of mpox as a public health emergency by both the Africa CDC and WHO emphasize the severity of this situation, urging nations to implement effective control strategies.
Original Source: english.news.cn
