Africa top health body declares Mpox public health emergency
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Between January and July, at least 15,074 Mpox cases were recorded across 12 African Union member states, with 2,853 confirmed cases and 12,221 suspected cases.
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The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) announced Tuesday a public health emergency due to the Mpox outbreak across the continent.
"With a heavy heart, but with an unyielding commitment to our people, to our African citizens, we declare Mpox as a public health emergency of continental security in Africa," Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya told a briefing.
According to the Africa CDC, between January and July, at least 15,074 Mpox cases were recorded across 12 African Union member states, with 2,853 confirmed cases and 12,221 suspected cases.
Additionally, there were a total of 461 deaths reported.
This marks a significant increase in Mpox cases, with a 160% rise in cases and a 19% increase in deaths compared to the same period in 2023.
Special Press Briefing on Health Emergencies in Africa | Aug. 13, 2024 https://t.co/pCkvfATrck
— Africa CDC (@AfricaCDC) August 13, 2024
Read more: Mpox still global health emergency: WHO
Mpox is a rare infectious disease that can spread between people.
While it is generally mild and most individuals recover within a few weeks, complications can occur.
Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, back pain, swollen lymph nodes, chills, and fatigue.
A characteristic rash often develops, starting on the face and spreading to other parts of the body.
