The African Union’s health watchdog, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), has officially declared a public health emergency across the continent in response to the escalating mpox outbreak.
This move comes as the disease continues to spread rapidly, posing a serious threat to the health and safety of millions of Africans.
Jean Kaseya, the head of Africa CDC, made the solemn announcement during an online media briefing held on Tuesday.
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“I declare with a heavy heart but with an unyielding commitment to our people, to our African citizens, we declare mpox as a public health emergency of continental security,” Kaseya stated.
The mpox virus, previously known as monkeypox, has been spreading at an alarming rate across several African nations.
According to the latest data from the Africa CDC, as of August 4, 2024, the continent has recorded a staggering 38,465 cases of mpox, along with 1,456 deaths since January 2022.
The rapid increase in cases and the high mortality rate underscore the severity of the situation.
“Mpox has now crossed borders, affecting thousands across our continent, families have been torn apart, and the pain and suffering have touched every corner of our continent,” Kaseya emphasized.
The widespread nature of the outbreak has raised concerns among health experts, governments, and the public alike, with calls for immediate and decisive action to curb the spread of the virus.
The declaration of a public health emergency is not just a symbolic gesture but a “clarion call to action,” as Kaseya described it.
“This declaration is not merely a formality; it is a recognition that we can no longer afford to be reactive. We must be proactive and aggressive in our efforts to contain and eliminate this threat,” he added.
The Africa CDC is urging all African nations to collaborate closely in the fight against mpox.
The agency is calling for enhanced surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, increased public awareness, and the mobilization of resources to combat the outbreak effectively.
The emphasis is on a coordinated and united approach to address what has become a continent-wide health crisis.
As the situation develops, the Africa CDC will continue to monitor the outbreak and provide updates on the measures being implemented.
The agency is also working with international partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), to ensure that the necessary support and resources are available to African nations in their battle against mpox.
In conclusion, the declaration of mpox as a public health emergency is a critical step in recognizing the seriousness of the outbreak and the urgent need for action.
It serves as a stark reminder that the health and safety of millions of Africans are at stake, and that swift, coordinated efforts are essential to prevent further loss of life and suffering across the continent.
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