The Africa Centre for Disease Control (Africa CDC) is set to declare a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) over the escalating mpox outbreak. A new, more contagious variant of the disease is driving the surge in cases.
Mpox, transmitted through close contact, causes flu-like symptoms and skin lesions. While most cases are mild, the disease can be fatal. The new Clade Ib variant, predominantly affecting children, is spreading rapidly in Congo and beyond.
Africa CDC Director-General Jean Kaseya announced the impending declaration on Thursday, citing a 79% increase in cases from 2022 to 2023 and a staggering 160% rise from 2023 to 2024. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Mpox is the reality, and Africans are dying.”
The PHECS declaration, scheduled for next week, aims to bolster the continent’s response to the crisis. It will enable Africa CDC to coordinate cross-border efforts, mobilize resources, and accelerate vaccine development.
The World Health Organization (WHO) echoes Africa CDC’s concerns, highlighting an unprecedented surge in mpox cases this year. Congo has reported over 13,000 suspected cases and 503 deaths, with the overall toll since January 2023 reaching approximately 27,000 cases and 1,000 deaths.
As the continent braces for the PHECS declaration, the global community watches closely. The outbreak’s trajectory will significantly impact public health security worldwide.
