DRC Faces Severe Mpox Outbreak with Over 5,000 Cases in South Kivu, 80% Child Deaths

Aug 28, 2024, 07:30 AM

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is currently facing a severe mpox outbreak, with over 5,000 cases detected in South Kivu province since January. The outbreak, primarily driven by clade Ia, has resulted in significant fatalities, with children accounting for over 80% of the deaths. In the past week alone, Africa recorded 3,953 new mpox cases and 81 deaths. The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared mpox a global health emergency and is seeking $135 million for a strategic response plan, including $87.4 million for WHO's implementation. The outbreak has also spread to other African countries, with confirmed cases of clade Ib in Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and beyond, including recent cases in Thailand and Sweden linked to travel. Burundi reported 231 cases of mpox. Despite the urgent need for vaccines, Africa has secured less than 10% of the estimated $245 million required to combat the outbreak. The United States has donated 10,000 doses of mpox vaccines to Nigeria, marking a critical step in addressing the crisis. However, the rapid spread of the virus continues to pose a significant threat to public health and economic stability in the region.