The World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm as Africa grapples with a massive mpox outbreak this year, with nearly 30,000 suspected cases reported across the continent. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the epicenter, battling strained healthcare systems and critical shortages of testing supplies. 📉
By the Numbers
From January to mid-September 2024, over 29,000 suspected and confirmed cases were recorded, with 812 deaths. The DRC alone accounts for more than 5,300 confirmed cases, while neighboring countries like Burundi and Nigeria are also seeing spikes. Other nations, including Uganda and South Africa, report new infections weekly. 💔
Global Response
International aid is stepping up: the World Bank recently pledged $128.89 million to help ten African countries tackle the outbreak. But challenges remain—limited testing capacity means many cases go undiagnosed, and healthcare workers are stretched thin. 🌍💉
Why It Matters
Mpox spreads through close contact, causing flu-like symptoms and skin lesions. While rare, it can be fatal. In August, the Africa CDC declared it a continental emergency, and WHO swiftly labeled the outbreak a global health threat. 🚨
This isn’t just a regional crisis—it’s a wake-up call for global health solidarity. Stay tuned as we track this developing story.
