The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has declared its mpox outbreak a “continental emergency,” with cases soaring to 16,700 and 570 deaths this year alone. Health Minister Roger Kamba warned of the virus’s rapid spread across 17 African nations and its alarming impact on children under 15 .
A new variant, clade 1b, has driven the crisis, with a mortality rate of 3.6%—far deadlier than previous strains. The World Health Organization (WHO) labeled mpox a “global public health emergency” last week, citing risks of cross-border transmission .
Vaccine Inequality Exposed
DRC will receive its first mpox vaccines next week, addressing what Kamba called a “huge inequity.” While Europe and the U.S. stockpiled shots during a 2022 outbreak, African nations had none. Global vaccine alliance Gavi has pledged up to $500 million to support affected countries .
Prevention First
Kamba stressed that vaccines alone won’t stop mpox. The virus spreads via close contact, emphasizing the need for hygiene and awareness. Though symptoms resemble flu and skin lesions, the DRC’s containment efforts have limited national spread—for now .
With cases up 160% from 2023, this outbreak is rewriting the rules. Stay vigilant, travelers and health enthusiasts!
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Vaccine Inequality Exposed
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Prevention First
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