Kinshasa (Congo): Roger Kamba, Health Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has announced that the mpox outbreak is now a "continental emergency." As of Monday, the DRC has reported 16,700 cases of mpox, including over 570 deaths, up from last week’s figures of 15,664 cases and 548 deaths. The outbreak, which began in December 2022, led to the creation of a response system in February 2023 due to rising cases.
The disease, now affecting 17 African countries and others beyond the continent, is notably hitting children under 15, a new and concerning trend. "But I remind you that the vaccine is only part of the response; the first line of defence is adherence to preventive measures," specifying that the DRC is expecting to receive mpox vaccines next week, which should help curb the spread.
Also Read
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently labeled mpox as a public health emergency of international concern, citing the risk of global transmission.
The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also labeled the outbreak a public health emergency for the continent. In 2024, new cases have surged by 160% compared to the same period last year. The outbreak's severity is heightened by a new, more deadly variant of the virus, Clade 1b, which has a 3.6% mortality rate, much higher than earlier strains.
Agencies
Published: 20 Aug 2024, 07:33 am IST
Disclaimer: Kindly avoid objectionable, derogatory, unlawful and lewd comments, while responding to reports. Such comments are punishable under cyber laws. Please keep away from personal attacks. The opinions expressed here are the personal opinions of readers and not that of Mathrubhumi.