The Africa CDC says controlling the spread of Mpox will require immediate action on the continent as the risk of spread between neighbouring countries and globally is high. Cross-border movement, low public understanding of Mpox transmission, and insufficient response capacity are major challenges among African countries that make the spread likely, according to the public health body. In an article published on its website, Africa CDC highlighted the vaccine shortage as a serious threat to the countries’ efforts at containment.
The agency also noted that many African countries are highly vulnerable to Mpox infection due to widespread malnutrition and the prevalence of HIV. “The outbreak is further complicated by a high case fatality rate of over 3·9 per cent, particularly among children younger than 15 years, who account for 60 per cent of cases,” the agency said. The agency reported that investigation revealed that heterosexual sexual activities, particularly among sex workers in Congo, are a major driver of Mpox transmission.
This is in contrast with what is obtainable in Europe, where spread occurred mostly between men who had sex with men. “The high prevalence among women raises concerns about vertical transmission risks and adverse pregnancy outcomes. “The high risk of severe infection among people living with HIV, considerations for asymptomatic infections, poor vaccination strategies, limited access to medical countermeasures, and low detection rates were o.