On the 17th, the African Union’s public health agency reported alarming statistics, revealing that approximately 1,100 people have died from Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox) across Africa. They warned that without further action, the outbreak could spiral out of control.
According to a report from Central News Agency, the Africa CDC indicated that since January of this year, there have been a total of 42,000 recorded cases of monkeypox in Africa. The initial cases were reported from Zambia and Zimbabwe, and so far, authorities in 18 African nations have confirmed domestic cases.
In an online press conference, Africa CDC director John Nkengasong stated, “If we do not take action, the monkeypox outbreak will get out of hand.” He also highlighted the tragic figure of 1,100 reported fatalities.
The majority of these deaths are concentrated in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which has been identified as the epicenter of the outbreak. Earlier this month, vaccination efforts began in the country. However, Nkengasong noted that new cases continue to emerge across Africa each week.
He reiterated calls for international partners to take action and urged them to release funding to combat the monkeypox outbreak immediately. “We want to see concrete action implemented now to curb the spread of this outbreak,” he said.
Monkeypox is transmitted to humans through infected animals, but it can also spread between individuals through close physical contact. Common symptoms include fever, muscle aches, and extensive pustular skin lesions, which can even lead to death in some cases.
