African nations have logged over 100 mpox-related deaths within a week, alarming health authorities. Dr. Jean Kaseya, head of the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention, confirmed the toll—107 fatalities and 3,160 new cases—describing the situation as "not acceptable." He urged enhanced cross-border surveillance following the launch of a continental response plan in collaboration with the World Health Organization.
Mpox, related to smallpox, generally causes mild symptoms but can lead to severe lesions in serious cases. Kaseya emphasized the need for greater testing resources, noting reliance on confirmed cases alone is insufficient. He also highlighted the necessity for further research on mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy. The response plan by Africa CDC and WHO, budgeted at nearly $600 million, aims to tackle the outbreak in 14 affected nations and boost readiness in 15 others.
Africa has begun receiving vaccines, including 250,000 doses delivered to Congo, the epicenter. However, this is a small fraction of the 3 million needed. EU countries have pledged more than 500,000 doses, though delivery dates remain uncertain. Kaseya affirmed the importance of the two-dose vaccination protocol for better protection; he plans to get vaccinated in Congo in October to demonstrate vaccine safety. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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