Africa is facing a surge in mpox cases, and the Africa CDC isn't taking it lightly. 🚨 They've teamed up with the World Health Organization (WHO) to launch a six-month response plan worth nearly $600 million! 💰
Running from September 2024 to February 2025, this massive plan aims to curb the rising mpox cases across the continent. With 55% of the budget going directly to affected countries and the rest supporting operations, it's all hands on deck! 👐
Since 2024, Africa has reported a whopping 24,851 suspected mpox cases, including 5,549 confirmed cases and 643 tragic deaths. 😢 The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is at the epicenter, accounting for 90% of the cases. Jean Kaseya, director general of Africa CDC, highlighted an \"upward trend\" in at least 14 countries, especially since May 2024. 📈
\"This is an important milestone for coordinated action,\" said WHO Regional Director for Africa, Matshidiso Moeti. \"By working together, we can achieve more, ensuring that communities and individuals are protected from this virus.\" 🤝
In mid-August, the WHO declared the ongoing mpox outbreak a public health emergency of international concern. ⚠️ A new, more dangerous variant, clade 1b, was first detected in the DRC in September 2023 and has since been found in several countries, including Sweden and Thailand.
Exciting news! 🎉 The DRC received its first batch of 99,100 mpox vaccine doses on Thursday. They're now working on a distribution and vaccination strategy, focusing on the eastern regions most affected amidst a prolonged humanitarian crisis.
Meanwhile, Guinea confirmed its first mpox case on Wednesday. 🦠 Genetic sequencing tests are underway to see if the clade 1b variant has spread to West Africa.
With this new response plan, Africa CDC and WHO are stepping up the fight against mpox. Let's hope this united effort turns the tide! 🌊💪
Reference(s):
Africa CDC warns of rising mpox cases, launches response plan with WHO
cgtn.com
