Mpox Declared a Health Emergency in Africa as Cases Surge
Written by Mfundo on 14 August, 2024
By: Xolani Khumalo
The Africa Centre for Disease Control has declared mpox a health emergency following a rapid increase in infections across the continent.
Since the beginning of the year, more than 13,700 cases and 450 deaths have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo alone.
The virus has also spread to other African countries, including South Africa, Kenya, and Rwanda.
This declaration will help governments coordinate their responses and secure financial aid.
Meanwhile, the World Health Organization will deliberate today on whether to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Professor Karim Abdool says the problem may be more severe than previously thought.
