Mpox Outbreak Situation Report: Latest Epidemiology and Focus on Africa
Overview
This is the 31st situation report for the multi-country outbreak of mpox, providing an update on the latest epidemiology and a special focus on Africa.
Key Points
- WHO declared mpox a global health emergency in July 2022 and ended that declaration in May 2023.
- Mpox is characterized by two genetic clades:
- Clade I: Less severe, endemic in Central and West Africa
- Clade II: More severe, responsible for the current global outbreak
- Since May 2022, cases have been reported from countries where mpox is not endemic, with continued reporting in several.
- In November 2023, 906 new laboratory-confirmed cases were reported globally from 26 countries.
- The most affected regions are Europe, the Americas, and Africa, with large burden shifts seen in Africa since October 2023.
Focus on Africa
Africa has seen a significant increase in mpox cases in recent months, with a total of 39% of cases reported globally in November 2023. The most affected countries are Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Cameroon.
The spread of mpox in Africa is concerning due to the limited access to healthcare and testing, as well as the potential for the virus to adapt and become more transmissible.
Recommendations
- Increase surveillance and testing in affected countries.
- Improve access to vaccines and treatments.
- Raise awareness and provide education about mpox.
- Support public health measures to prevent further spread.
Conclusion
The current mpox outbreak is a significant public health concern, particularly in Africa. To effectively control the spread of the virus, it is essential to strengthen surveillance, improve access to healthcare, and intensify public health measures. By working together, we can minimize the impact of mpox and protect the health of populations worldwide.
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