Mpox Cases Surge by 160% in Africa Amidst Vaccine Shortages

African health officials report a 160% increase in mpox cases this year, attributing the rise to the lack of effective treatments and vaccines. With Congo experiencing the majority of cases, officials express urgent concern about the possibility of further spread, especially in densely populated areas and among vulnerable populations.

African health officials are sounding the alarm as mpox cases have surged by 160% so far this year, exacerbated by a shortage of effective treatments and vaccines across the continent.

This week's report from the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reveals that mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, has been detected in 10 African countries, with Congo bearing the brunt. Congo alone accounts for over 96% of all cases and deaths, with children under 15 particularly hard-hit. New outbreaks have also been reported in Burundi, Rwanda, Kenya, and the Central African Republic.

Health authorities are especially concerned as mpox spreads via close contact, including sexual transmission, and recent genetic mutations suggest the virus is evolving. Without immediate vaccine intervention, experts warn of potential widespread outbreaks, citing the virus's higher death rate in Africa compared to the rest of the world.

(With inputs from agencies.)