The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced that vaccinations against mpox could commence within days across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other affected African nations. This development comes in response to a recent declaration by the World Health Organization (WHO), which has categorized the ongoing mpox outbreak as a global health emergency for the second time in two years.
In a briefing on Tuesday, Africa CDC Director General Jean Kaseya indicated that the necessary vaccines are expected to arrive by the end of next week, following commitments from the European Union, Bavarian Nordic, the United States, and Japan. These vaccines will be distributed in coordination with logistical and communication strategies developed in collaboration with nations currently grappling with mpox outbreaks.
“We have not yet commenced vaccination efforts. However, we anticipate starting in a few days, contingent on the readiness of our logistical and supply chain systems,” Kaseya stated. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that vaccines are safely stored and effectively administered.
Ongoing studies will assess the efficacy of various vaccines within the African context to determine the most suitable options. This data will help tailor the vaccination campaign to the specific needs of the affected regions.
Recent reports reveal a dramatic rise in mpox cases, with over 1,400 new cases identified in the past week alone. The total number of cases across 12 African countries has now reached nearly 19,000 since the beginning of 2024. This represents a more than 100% increase compared to the same period last year. Kaseya cautioned that it remains too early to determine whether the situation is improving.
Mpox, characterized by flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions, can be fatal despite often presenting as a mild infection. Multiple strains of the virus are currently circulating in Africa.
Kaseya also called for international solidarity, urging global partners to avoid discriminatory practices reminiscent of those during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the need for fair treatment and adequate support, including increased access to testing and vaccines.
“Solidarity means providing appropriate medical counter-measures and support,” Kaseya asserted, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts in combating the outbreak.