In a united effort to combat the growing mpox outbreak, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have unveiled the Mpox Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan. The six-month initiative, running from September 2024 to February 2025, aims to strengthen African nations' ability to curb the spread of the virus and protect public health.
The plan comes in response to declarations by both Africa CDC and WHO, which recently classified the mpox outbreak as a severe public health threat. Africa CDC declared a Public Health Emergency of Continental Security (PHECS) on August 13, 2024, while WHO followed with its Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on August 14, 2024.
With a budget of nearly $600 million, the plan allocates 55% of resources to support mpox response in 14 affected countries and preparedness efforts in 15 others. The remaining funds will be directed toward operational and technical support.
"This strategy ensures all stakeholders are united in tackling mpox across Africa," said Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General of Africa CDC. Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, added, "We must reinforce our expertise and swiftly halt the spread of mpox."
Key components of the response include enhancing surveillance, expanding laboratory testing, and improving vaccine access, with nations classified by their risk level receiving targeted support. An Incident Management Team will oversee the coordinated efforts of UN agencies, NGOs, and civil society under the "one team, one plan, one budget" model.
Article by Nyokabi Wanjiku
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