Mpox Outbreak: ECOWAS Sounds Alarm as Cases Rise

The ECOWAS Regional Centre for Surveillance and Disease Control has raised concerns over the rapid spread of Mpox (monkeypox) in Africa, with 44 confirmed cases and one death reported in the region by August 15, 2024. Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, and Ghana are among the hardest-hit countries.

The virus has spread across the continent, with 37,583 cases and 1,451 deaths reported this year, marking a significant increase from the previous year. The Democratic Republic of Congo bears the brunt of the crisis, accounting for 96.3% of all cases and 97% of deaths.

“The continent is facing a massive public health emergency. We recommend strengthened surveillance systems, timely reporting, and robust case management to mitigate the spread of the virus.”

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The Centre emphasized the need for public awareness campaigns, enhanced cooperation among neighboring countries, and coordinated surveillance, data sharing, and joint outbreak response efforts.

As the outbreak continues to spread, the European Union has pledged to donate 215,000 doses of vaccines to Africa to combat the crisis. The Africa Centre for Disease Control has declared Mpox a “public health emergency of continental security” due to its rapid spread across several countries.”