Mpox Outbreak: Congo Sees Over 1,000 New Cases in 7 Days
African Health Authorities Sound Alarm
The Democratic Republic of Congo has reported over 1,000 new cases of mpox in just seven days, prompting African health authorities to call for urgent vaccination protocols. This surge in cases has raised concerns across the continent, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) closely monitoring the situation.
Mpox: A Preventable Disease
Despite the rapid spread of mpox, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reassured that the disease is preventable with precautionary measures and vaccines. However, the WHO has also declared mpox a “Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC)” due to its potential impact.
Congo Bears the Brunt
Congo has been the hardest hit by the mpox outbreak, accounting for 94% of the continent’s 18,910 cases this year. The country has reported 17,794 cases and 535 deaths, with only 16% of cases officially tested and confirmed.
African Countries Affected
A total of 12 African countries have reported mpox cases, with Congo being the most affected. The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is working closely with health authorities to contain the outbreak.
Vaccination Protocol
African health authorities are urging for vaccination protocols to be put in place to prevent further spread of the disease. The WHO has emphasized that mpox is not another COVID-19, but rather a preventable disease that requires prompt action.
Conclusion
The mpox outbreak in Congo is a cause for concern, with over 1,000 new cases reported in just seven days. African health authorities are sounding the alarm, calling for urgent vaccination protocols to prevent further spread of the disease. While mpox is preventable, it is essential to take precautionary measures to contain the outbreak and prevent it from becoming a pandemic.